Supermoon Archives

The Leonid meteor shower peaks as the supermoon wanes

WASHINGTON (AP) — The November supermoon will still be almost full when the Leonid meteor shower peaks this weekend. Astronomers say the moonlight will likely obscure all but the brightest meteors in most locations. The Leonids are known for high-speed meteors that can travel at up to 44 miles per second. This year’s peak activity on Sunday will happen when the moon is 98% full. The shower lasts through December 2. The Leonids originate from the comet Tempel-Tuttle and may result in around 15 visible meteors per hour under ideal viewing conditions. The next big meteor shower will be the Geminids peaking in mid-December.… Continue Reading

Catch a partial lunar eclipse during September’s supermoon

NEW YORK (AP) — Get ready for a partial lunar eclipse and supermoon. The spectacle will be visible in clear skies across North and South America Tuesday night and in Africa and Europe Wednesday morning. A partial lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the sun and moon, casting a shadow that darkens a sliver of the moon. Since the moon will inch closer to Earth than usual, it’ll be a supermoon. No special eye protection is needed to view a lunar eclipse. Viewers can watch with the naked eye or opt for telescopes and binoculars.… Continue Reading