Overview
- The Hunter’s Moon reached its instant of maximum illumination in the early hours of Oct. 26, with published local peak times including 12:11 a.m. EDT for New York and 4:11 a.m. UTC for London.
- The Moon began rising near the eastern horizon at sunset on Oct. 25 and will appear effectively full for the nights before and after the peak, so casual observers can still enjoy the sight.
- Near-horizon color shifts to yellow or orange come from atmospheric scattering of blue light, and the apparent size increase is a perceptual 'moon illusion' rather than a physical change.
- No special equipment is required to view the Moon; NASA offers live streams and the Moon Trek interactive map for remote viewing, while photographers are advised to use a tripod, a remote shutter, and a telephoto lens for surface detail.
- Astronomically the full Moon was located in Taurus, the name 'Hunter’s Moon' reflects post-harvest hunting traditions in many cultures, and two modestly larger supermoons are expected in November and December 2026 when full moons coincide with lunar perigee.