Rare October 2025 Harvest Supermoon to Dazzle Sky Alongside Draconid Meteor Shower

Skywatchers are in for a spectacular treat this October as the 2025 Harvest Moon coincides with a brilliant supermoon and an active meteor shower. The full moon is set to appear on the evening of October 6, 2025, promising one of the most captivating celestial displays of the year.

The Harvest Moon, which occurs near the autumnal equinox, will be larger and more luminous than usual due to its supermoon status — a phenomenon that happens when the Moon is at or near its closest point to Earth. This proximity causes the Moon to appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter compared to when it is at its farthest point. “The bright lunar disk near the horizon produces the characteristic ‘orange color’ so commonly linked to the Harvest Moon,” astronomers explain.

What makes this event even more special is that the Harvest Moon typically occurs in September, but in 2025, its alignment with the lunar cycle shifts it to October. The Moon will be fully illuminated at 11:47 p.m. EDT on October 6, though it will appear nearly full on the surrounding nights as well.

Adding to the celestial spectacle, the Draconid meteor shower will peak around the same time. Although the brightness of the supermoon may overshadow the fainter meteors, the brighter shooting stars will still be visible streaking across the night sky. The Draconids, named after the constellation Draco, produce slow-moving meteors that appear to radiate from the northern horizon.

Experts advise observers to find a wide, unobstructed location away from city lights to fully enjoy the view. The moonrise will begin shortly after sunset and climb higher as the night progresses. While the event can be enjoyed with the naked eye, binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the experience by revealing the Moon’s craters and surface details.

Observers are encouraged to watch early in the evening when the Moon is near the horizon to appreciate its large, golden appearance. Those interested in spotting Draconid meteors should look toward the northern horizon later at night.

This October 2025 Supermoon offers a rare opportunity to witness the Moon at its brightest while sharing the sky with a meteor shower, reminding us of the breathtaking natural rhythms of our planet that are accessible to all.