WSIL -- The first of two full moons in October 2020 will occur Thursday night! Known as the "Harvest Moon", it's the full moon closest to the Autumnal Equinox. The Harvest Moon typically occurs in September, but this year, it falls on the first day of October.
This year's Harvest Moon may appear bigger and brighter for those viewing it right after sunset. As the moon comes over the horizon, it will appear bigger, thanks to "moon illusion".
The moon is officially full at 4:05 p.m. Thursday afternoon, but it won't rise until 6:59 p.m. If you're checking out the full moon, keep a close watch for Mars, as it will be visible near the moon.
Somewhat unique to October this year, there will be two full moons in the same month. The second, known as a "Blue Moon", will occur on October 31, coinciding with Halloween. Spooky! No, the moon won't be blue, but it's the name given to the second full moon in a month. On average, blue moons occur around every 2.5 to 3 years. The last time one happened on Halloween? 1944.
