Skywatchers: Hello Harvest Moon

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The serpentine configuration is marked by the dragon’s “head” quadrangle of bright stars located just to the north of the prominent summertime star Vega.  And TOI-1452 is in that area, as well.

Harvest Moon

The September full moon is commonly known as the Harvest Moon. The name dates back to the early American colonists who depended on the harvest to survive.

This is the time of the year when summer crops are ready to be harvested. And legend has it that before electricity, farmers continued to harvest their crops after sunset by the light of the Harvest Moon.

The Harvest Moon is also known as the Rutting Moon, Falling Leaves Moon, and the Corn Moon.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Full Moon comes into view on Friday, September 9th. This year the Harvest Moon will align with both Jupiter and Saturn when it rises. 

This should be easy to spot because Jupiter is expected to be shining brighter than ever throughout the month. Look to the Southern skies.  And when you get Jupiter in your telescope, sights look for Saturn. It is just slightly to the right of our largest planet. But if you want to see Saturn’s rings you will need a telescope.

Autumnal Equinox

 September 22nd marks the beginning of Autumn. The Autumnal equinox is traditionally the start of Fall across the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of Spring across the Southern Hemisphere.