Harvest Moon Hangs Low Signaling the Approach of Fall and the Autumnal Equinox

All this week, the moon will rise just as the sun sets and will hang low in the sky. This full moon, which occurs nearest to the Autumnal Equinox signals the shift in seasons from summer to fall. This is known as the Harvest Moon.

The name comes from the fact that at this time of year, as days are growing shorter, farmers are busy brining in the seasons harvest. A low hanging moon which rises just as the sun is setting provides a little extra light to extend the day and give them more time to work.

For others, a Harvest Moon is simply a spectacular view at the end of the day. Following a view of the sunset, a rising and transition Harvest Moon appears much larger than usual. The moon’s light is scattered by more atmosphere than if it were higher in the sky. This gives the moon both a larger appearance, as well as a deeper red color.

The more dust or haze there is in the sky, the deeper and redder the color. This is a result of the atmosphere scattering the blue light from the moon.