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The harvest moon pairs up with Saturn for a 2-for-1 celestial display
KSL.com • • general
Key Points:
- The first full moon of the fall season will peak in brightness on Saturday at 10:49 a.m. MDT, with optimal viewing just after sunset; Saturn will also be visible near the moon from Friday to Monday.
- Saturn reaches opposition on October 4, making it the best time to observe the planet as it appears larger and brighter due to its proximity to Earth.
- Neptune will appear close to the moon but is difficult to see without binoculars or a telescope and clear, dark skies.
- September’s full moon is traditionally called the harvest moon, named for its timing near the autumnal equinox and its historical use by farmers to extend harvesting into the night.
- Three more full moons are expected in 2026, including super moons in November and December when the moon appears larger and brighter due to its closer orbit to Earth.
