The Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon is the full moon that appears closest to the first day of autumn. It usually shows up in September or October. The Harvest Moon often looks big and orange when it rises. For hundreds of years, farmers used its bright light to harvest their crops after dark.

Why It Is Special

Most full moons rise about 50 minutes later each night. But the Harvest Moon rises only about 20 to 30 minutes later each night. This means there is extra moonlight in the evenings around harvest time. Farmers long ago used this light to keep working in the fields after sunset.

Why It Looks So Big

The Harvest Moon often looks very large and orange when it first rises. This is because you are seeing it near the horizon. Earth's atmosphere bends the light and gives it a warm color. The Moon is not actually any bigger than usual. It is a trick that your eyes and the atmosphere play together.

Fun Facts

• The Harvest Moon got its name because it helped farmers harvest crops by moonlight.
• The Harvest Moon can appear in either September or October.
• In the Southern Hemisphere, the Harvest Moon happens in March or April.

Did You Know?

The Harvest Moon is not always the biggest or brightest full moon of the year. It is just the one closest to the start of autumn.