Aurora borealis, northern lights, over Plymouth Harbor in Massachusetts
Video by Ken Grille shows the colorful northern lights over Plymouth Harbor in Massachusetts on Thursday, Oct. 10, caused by aa G4 geomagnetic storm.
Ken Grille via Storyful
Keep looking up Iowa because there is a full moon arriving just a week after Iowans had a chance to see the northern lights.
This week’s hunter moon isn’t a basic full moon either. It is also a supermoon. Here is when you should go outside and look up.
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When is the next full moon?
The upcoming full moon is Thursday, Oct. 17. Plan to wake up early because peak illumination at 6:26 a.m., according to Time and Date.
Why is it called the hunter’s moon?
The full moon in October is referred to as the hunter’s moon because of the season when it takes place. Historically, hunters started collecting food and storing it for the winter months, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
“Many moons ago, Native Americans named this bright moon for obvious reasons,” the almanac said. “The leaves are falling from trees, the deer are fattened, and it’s time to begin storing up meat for the long winter ahead.”
What’s a supermoon?
A supermoon happens when the Moon’s orbit is closest to the Earth while it is a full moon, according to NASA. This means the moon is slightly brighter and larger than a regular full moon.
What is the forecast for the full moon in Des Moines?
The skies are expected to be clear on Thursday evening making for ideal conditions for skywatching. Evening temperatures should be around 50 degrees, according to the National Weather Services.
More: Missed the northern lights? Here’s a gallery from Thursday and tips for viewing Friday
Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.
