The October full moon, traditionally known as the Hunter Moon, will reach its fullest phase on Oct. 25 at 9:11 p.m. local time in the Lower Mainland, offering one of the last regular-sized full moons of the year before two consecutive supermoons in November and December.
What makes the Hunter Moon distinct
The name "Hunter Moon" reflects seasonal activity: historically, the full moon in October occurred at a time when people increased hunting to prepare for the coming winter. It is also sometimes called the Sanguine or Blood Moon — a label that has been linked either to the blood from hunting or to autumnal leaf colours.
Unlike some years when the full moon closest to the autumn equinox is called the Harvest Moon, this year's naming follows astronomical timing. Because September's full moon — often referred to as the full "corn" moon — fell nearer to the equinox on Sept. 22, the October moon takes the traditional hunter designation.
Supermoons ahead and what "perigean" means
November and December will feature so-called supermoons. These are perigean full moons — full phases that occur when the Moon is near the closest point in its orbit to Earth. Skywatching guides note that supermoons appear larger and brighter than average:
- roughly 15 per cent brighter than a regular full moon
- about 7 per cent larger in apparent diameter
"Astronomers usually call supermoons perigean full moons, a term indicating that the moon is 'near Earth.'"
These percentages describe apparent changes in brightness and size compared with a typical full moon — the effect is noticeable to attentive skywatchers, particularly when the Moon is low on the horizon and appears large against familiar landscape features.
Viewing conditions and the role of the weather
While the calendar and orbital geometry determine the timing and apparent size of full moons, local weather ultimately governs whether people in Canada will see them. Cloud cover, precipitation and atmospheric haze can obscure or diminish the experience.
Environment Canada offers an online cloud forecast tool that can help prospective observers check the likelihood of clear skies. For residents of Metro Vancouver and other coastal regions where marine cloud layers are frequent, consulting short-term forecasts is especially useful in deciding when to step outside for moon viewing.
Quick reference
| Event | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| October full (Hunter Moon) | Oct. 25 — 9:11 p.m. (Lower Mainland) | Typical full-moon size and brightness; traditional hunting-season name |
| November & December full moons | November & December | Perigean or "supermoons" — about 15% brighter and 7% bigger than a regular full moon |
For photographers, astronomers and casual observers alike, these upcoming lunar events present opportunities to compare appearances across the late-autumn sky. Those planning to photograph or simply admire the Moon should check local forecasts for cloud cover and pick nights with the clearest conditions.
Finally, moon names reflect human relationships with seasonal change. Several sources note that Indigenous Peoples historically gave distinctive names to the recurring full moons to mark the progression of the year — a reminder that astronomical phenomena are observed through many cultural and practical lenses.
