Hunter’s Moon 2016: Where, when and how to watch the full blood Moon tonight
THE Hunter's Moon will illuminate the sky tonight with an eerie red blood moon, and this is how and where you can see it.
A large red blood Moon will be in effect this weekend
What is the Hunter’s Moon?
The Hunter’s Moon, also known as a blood or sanguine moon, is a rare and impressive celestial event.
The phenomenon usually occurs in October and is the first full moon after the autumnal equinox.
Though the Moon typically rises 50 minutes later each day due to its orbit, the Harvest Moon rises 30 minutes later.
This means that sunset and moonrise are not far apart creating prolonged daylight.
Traditionally, the Hunter’s Moon has been used by farmers and hunters to finish off their day’s work.
It is usually no bigger or brighter than any other full moons.
The moon will be 14 per cent larger than normal
This year's Harvest Moon is also a supermoon – meaning that the full Moon coincides with the night that the Moon is at its closest point to Earth in its monthly orbit.
This means that the blood Moon will appear up to 14 per cent larger and will seem much brighter.
The Moon will likely take on an bold orange colour hue to its proximity to the horizon.
While all full moons take on a slight tinge, the effect will be much more dramatic due to its increased size.
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When is the Hunter’s Moon 2016?
The Hunter's Moon will be visible tonight, Sunday October 16.
The Moon is expected to rise at around 7.46pm BST – when it will likely take an orange colour – and will be at its highest point at 1.23am.
Workers traditionally used the Hunter's Moon to continue working
Where to watch the Full Hunter’s Moon
Stargazers across the northern hemisphere will be able to view the blood Moon tonight.
It will be most visible in areas with clear skies, so it is advisable to check local weather conditions.
The moon will rise just after 6pm
How to watch the Full Hunter’s Moon
The Moon will be larger than usual tonight and will be easy to spot without the help of any special equipment.