September marks the transition back to everyday life after the summer: the days get cooler, the routine returns – and for Munich residents, of course, this also means Oktoberfest. The sky also plays its part in this change of energy from summer to fall: The supermoon meets a partial lunar eclipse and creates an astronomical sensation this month.
What exactly is it about?
In August, we almost experienced a supermoon, in September the phenomenon fully materializes – and there is even another one to come: Last night, the moon went partially into the Earth’s shadow, eclipsing about a tenth of the full moon for about an hour. The partial lunar eclipse could be observed in Munich at 4.27 am. So if you were awake at this hour, you could marvel at the sky.
The full moon in September is a supermoon due to its proximity to Earth. According to NASA, this proximity is recognizable in the sky, but only for experienced moon observers. Astrophysicists emphasize that the supermoon appears about 7 percent larger and 14 percent brighter.
The moon reaches its closest distance to Earth today at 15:23. It will be most visible in Munich on 18 September at around 19:32. The next supermoon of the year awaits us in October – this time a little closer than before. There are several hotspots on the list for the ideal vantage point in Munich: For those who want to admire the sky surrounded by nature, the Olympiaberg and the English Garden offer beautiful spots. But if you also want to enjoy a delicious drink, the roof terrace of the Frau im Mond bar is the ideal place.