Up and down the country, Brits will be treated to a dazzling celestial phenomenon tonight, October 17. This evening's moon will light up the night sky - but it won't just be like any other full moon.
This month's spectacular lunar display is known as the Hunter's Moon and will also be a supermoon. It will be the third supermoon of the year, with the fourth and final one due next month.
Supermoons appear brighter and bigger in size, and tonight's will be the biggest and brightest of the entire year. Supermoons happen when the moon is closest to the Earth, giving it a larger appearance than normal.
This can be as much as 30% more than a regular full moon. However, its sizing doesn't actually change.
The full Hunter's Moon will be visible from today, October 17. It reached peak illumination just after midday, but it will be an incredible sight once the sun sets, from 6pm onwards.
The best time to catch a glimpse of a full moon is just after the sun goes down. Keep your gaze low on the Eastern horizon to witness the beauty.
While binoculars and telescopes aren't required, having them nearby can improve your experience. You'll notice that full moons appear larger during moonrise and moonset.
This month's supermoon will last three days in total. NASA says this week's Super Hunter's Moon will be "the brightest by a tiny margin", adding: "The Moon will appear full for about three days around this time, from Tuesday evening through Friday morning."
What is the Hunter's Moon?
The Hunter's Moon gained its name because of its increased luminosity and earlier rising time. It provides more light after sunset, benefiting hunters and making animals appear more visible.
Since 1710, October's full moon has been dubbed the Hunter's Moon, signalling when farmers and hunters would stock up on food before the winter sets in. With fields harvested and wildlife more visible, hunting was easier.
Various Native American tribes have called October's full moon the Blood Moon, Travel Moon, or Dying Grass Moon, each name reflecting a notable change in the season.
Top tips for stargazing
For those looking to see the moon in all its glory, Parkdean Resorts has released a list of top tips for budding astronomers hoping to glimpse the highly anticipated Hunter's Moon over the next few days.
1. Get up high
The further up you are, the better your chance of seeing the stars in a clear sky. Take a hike in your local area and explore the surroundings to find the perfect stargazing spot.
The further away you are from light pollution, the better your chance of seeing the stars. The moon always rises in the east and set in the west - so follow this direction in your search.
2. Research what you're looking at
Enhance the stargazing experience by downloading Star Chart free on AR-enabled Apple or Android devices. Star Chart lets you point the camera at the sky and tell you exactly what is up there.
3. Use the Time and Date website for the best chance of spotting the planets
Time and Date can allow you to input your location before generating information about when the planets are most visible. With lots of helpful information about what's in the universe, this is a great way to educate the family about the wonders of space.