Discover all you need to know about the September 2023 Full Moon, also known as the Full Harvest Moon. Scheduled for Friday, September 29th at 5:57 AM EDT or 9:57 AM UTC, this will be the tenth full moon on the 2023 Full Moon calendar. As an astronomical phenomenon that occurs approximately once a month, full moons mark a moment when the Earth is directly between the Sun and Moon, causing the lunar surface to appear completely illuminated. In this article, we will explore the various nicknames and facts about the September Full Moon, delve into its connection to the Autumnal Equinox, and discuss other moon phases and occurrences during this period. Get ready to discover all that the September 2023 Full Moon has to offer!
When is the full moon in September 2023?
The full moon in September will occur on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 5:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) or 9:57 AM Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This full moon will be the tenth full moon of the year 2023 and will mark an important celestial event.
What is the name of the September 2023 Full Moon?
The September 2023 Full Moon is known as the Full Harvest Moon. This nickname is inspired by nature and agriculture, as well as the timing of the Fall Equinox. In 2023, the September full moon is called the Full Harvest Moon because it occurs closer to the start of autumn than October’s full moon. In other years, the September Full Moon is also referred to as the Full Corn Moon. The name reflects the importance of the harvest season in many cultures and signifies a time of abundance and preparation for the coming winter.
Which season includes the September Full Moon?
The September Full Moon is the first full moon of the Autumn season in 2023. It occurs after the Autumnal Equinox, which marks the beginning of astronomical autumn and the end of astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere. In 2023, the Autumnal Equinox will take place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 2:50 AM EDT or 6:50 AM UTC. The alignment of the full moon with the Autumnal Equinox often holds cultural and symbolic significance, representing the transition from the warmth of summer to the coolness of autumn.
When is the new moon for the 2023 Full Harvest Moon?
The lunar cycle for the September 2023 Full Moon will begin with its new moon in September 2023. The new moon, also known as the New Harvest Moon, will occur on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 9:40 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) or September 15, 2023, at 1:40 AM Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This new moon will be in the zodiac sign of Virgo, bringing an energy of practicality, organization, and attention to detail.
Will there be a full supermoon in September 2023?
Depending on the definition of a supermoon, the full moon in September 2023 may or may not be considered a full supermoon. A supermoon is a term used to describe a full moon that occurs when the Moon is at or near its closest approach to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee. The July full moon in 2023 will be approximately 361,552 kilometers from Earth during its peak, based on calculations by AstroPixels. According to the definition by Timeanddate.com, which considers moons less than 360,000 kilometers from Earth as supermoons, the full moon in September 2023 will not qualify as a supermoon. However, based on alternative definitions, there may still be some speculation as to whether this full moon can be considered a supermoon.
Will there be a lunar eclipse during the September Full Moon?
No, there will not be a lunar eclipse during the full moon in September 2023. However, there will be two lunar eclipses in 2023. The May Full Moon will experience a penumbral lunar eclipse, where the Moon passes through Earth’s outer shadow, resulting in a subtle darkening of the Moon. Additionally, a partial lunar eclipse will occur during the October Full Moon, where only a portion of the Moon will pass through Earth’s shadow. While the September Full Moon will not have a lunar eclipse, these events provide opportunities for skywatchers to witness the dynamic celestial phenomena.
September 2023 Moon Phases in Eastern Time and UTC
Here are the various moon phases for September 2023, including the new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. These dates and times are based on both United States Eastern Time Zone (ET) and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), adjusted for daylight saving time:
- September Last Quarter: September 6, 2023, 6:21 PM EDT or 10:21 PM UTC
- September New Moon: September 14, 2023, 9:40 PM EDT or September 15, 2023, 1:40 AM UTC
- September First Quarter: September 22, 2023, 3:32 PM EDT or 7:32 PM UTC
- September Full Moon: September 29, 2023, 5:57 AM EDT or 9:57 AM UTC
These moon phases provide a glimpse into the changing nature of the lunar cycle and offer opportunities for observation and reflection.
Future September Full Moons
For those interested in future September Full Moons beyond 2023, here is a list of upcoming dates until 2029:
- 2024: Tuesday, September 17, 2024, 10:34 PM EDT
- 2025: Sunday, September 7, 2025, 2:09 PM EDT
- 2026: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 12:49 PM EDT
- 2027: Wednesday, September 15, 2027, 7:04 PM EDT
- 2028: Sunday, September 3, 2028, 7:48 PM EDT
- 2029: Saturday, September 22, 2029, 12:29 PM EDT
These dates provide an opportunity to mark your calendars and look forward to future September Full Moon celebrations and observations.
Past September Full Moons
For those curious about the timing of past September Full Moons, here are some dates for previous years:
- 2022: Saturday, September 10, 2022, 5:59 AM EDT
- 2021: Monday, September 20, 2021, 7:55 PM EDT
- 2020: Wednesday, September 2, 2020, 1:22 AM EDT
- 2019: Saturday, September 14, 2019, 12:33 AM EDT
- 2018: Monday, September 24, 2018, 10:53 PM EDT
- 2017: Wednesday, September 6, 2017, 3:03 AM EDT
Reflecting on the past September Full Moons allows for a deeper appreciation of the ever-changing celestial rhythms and the timeless beauty of the lunar cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the September Full Moons:
How many full moons will there be in September 2023?
In 2023, there will be one full moon in September. The September Full Moon will occur on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 5:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) or 10:57 AM Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). While other years may have two full moons in September, with the second being referred to as a blue moon, this is not the case for 2023.
Where can I find future full moon calendars?
If you’re interested in knowing when the full moon will occur throughout the year, you can find future full moon calendars online or refer to astronomical resources. These calendars provide dates and times for each full moon, allowing you to plan ahead and experience the beauty of the moon’s luminous presence.
As the friendly voice of FullMoonology, we hope this article has provided you with valuable information about the September 2023 Full Moon. By exploring the dates, names, and characteristics of this celestial event, we can deepen our connection to the natural world and appreciate the wonders of the lunar cycle. Remember to mark your calendars and make time for moon gazing under the enchanting glow of the Full Harvest Moon. Happy moon watching!
