Skywatchers across North America are in for a celestial treat this week as the October Harvest Supermoon graces the night sky. If you’re wondering, is it a full moon tonight, the answer is — almost! The full moon officially reaches its peak on October 7, 2025, at 11:48 p.m. ET (8:48 p.m. PT), according to Space.com and NASA.
This month’s lunar spectacle is not just any full moon — it’s both a Harvest Moon and a Supermoon, making it appear larger and brighter than usual.
Is It a Full Moon Tonight or Tomorrow?
Many are asking, “is tonight a full moon?” The moon will appear full for several nights around October 7 due to its bright phase. However, astronomers confirm that the official full moon phase occurs late Monday night.
If clouds obscure your view, don’t worry — this October full moon will remain nearly full on both the nights of October 6 and 8, giving skywatchers plenty of opportunities to experience its glow.
Moon Phase Today: What to Expect
As of today, the moon phase is entering its waxing gibbous stage, meaning it’s nearly full but not quite there yet. Tonight, you’ll notice the moon appearing 95–99% illuminated, depending on your location.
When the moon reaches its full phase, it sits directly opposite the sun in the sky, reflecting sunlight fully onto Earth — a natural phenomenon that has fascinated humans for millennia.
So, if you’ve been searching, “moon phase today” or “is it a full moon tonight,” you’re right on time to catch one of the most spectacular lunar events of the year.
When Is the Next Full Moon After October?
After October’s event, the next full moon will occur on November 5, 2025, known as the Beaver Supermoon, followed by the Cold Supermoon on December 4, 2025.
Each of these supermoons will appear slightly closer and larger in the sky as the moon’s elliptical orbit brings it nearer to Earth — a point known as perigee.
In total, three consecutive supermoons will close out 2025, making this autumn one of the most exciting skywatching periods in years.
October Harvest Moon Supermoon Explained
The Harvest Moon 2025 gets its name from ancient agricultural traditions. Historically, this was the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, helping farmers harvest crops under its extended light.
This year’s October Harvest Moon Supermoon will sit roughly 224,599 miles from Earth, appearing about 7% larger and 15% brighter than an average full moon.
Your brain also plays tricks on you during a supermoon — when it’s near the horizon, the moon illusion makes it seem even larger compared to surrounding buildings or trees.
How to See the October Supermoon
To make the most of this October supermoon, NASA and astronomy experts suggest the following:
- Check moonrise times: The moon will rise around sunset in most areas.
- Find a dark spot: Avoid city lights for clearer visibility.
- Let your eyes adjust: It takes about 15–20 minutes for your vision to adapt to the darkness.
You can also use weather and astronomy apps like Star Walk or SkyView to find the moon’s exact position in your area.
When Is Full Moon Visibility Best?
For those asking, “when is the full moon visible tonight?”, the best time to observe it will be shortly after moonrise, when it appears low on the horizon. This creates the most dramatic and photogenic views.
Whether you call it the October full moon, the Harvest Moon, or the October Supermoon, this natural event offers a stunning way to connect with the night sky.
A Celestial Reminder
The October 2025 Harvest Supermoon reminds us of the timeless rhythm between Earth and its nearest celestial neighbor. For stargazers and casual observers alike, this supermoon offers a chance to pause, look up, and appreciate the universe’s beauty.
So, to answer the question once more — is it a full moon tonight? Almost. But the magic begins now.
Stay Curious
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