September 29, 2023 will be marked by a new full moon that's a bit unusual in that it'll seem bigger than usual! If you've already heard about it this summer, that's normal, because every year, three to four Supermoons rise in our skies. This one will be the last of the year, and we'll have to wait until August 2024 to see it again! This astronomical phenomenon, known as a"Super Moon", occurs when the Moon is at perigee, i.e. closest to its orbit, the Earth, at a distance of around 356,500 kilometers.
Described as 14% larger and 30% brighter, the Moon appears closer to us, but this is only an impression, as the change is not detectable with the naked eye. However, it is definitely a little brighter, which always makes for a dazzling sight to behold. The term "supermoon" dates back to 1979. That year, astrologer Richard Nolle decided to use the term to describe the phenomenon, which has since been adopted by NASA and the media.
Astronomers and scientists, on the other hand, prefer the term "perigee-syzygy". Nicknamed the harvest full moon, it owes its nickname to the early autumn harvest, when farmers used the moonlight to work. At the end of September, the weather is likely to be less clement than during the summer, but without rain or clouds, you'll be able to observe it as soon as the sun sets, from 7.30pm, as night begins to fall earlier and earlier, after the autumnal equinox.
The supermoon will be visible at before disappearing at around 7.40 a.m. - ideal conditions for admiring the spectacle while it's still warm outside. Although it's easy to observe with the naked eye, a telescope or binoculars are highly recommended for a more detailed view. And don't hesitate to take to the heights of the capital for a superb view!
Dates and Opening Time
From September 29th, 2023 to September 30th, 2023
