Here’s How to See the Supermoon & Partial Eclipse in San Diego
There will be two lunar events on Tuesday evening, including a partial eclipse and a supermoon that will be visible in San Diego. Here’s how to see them.
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, the full moon will rise over San Diego. However, the moon is a special one, since it’ll be a supermoon visible in San Diego that also happens to be this year’s Harvest Moon. More than that, the Harvest Super Moon will coincide with a partial lunar eclipse, according to FOX 5 San Diego.
What’s the difference between a supermoon and a Harvest Moon? Here’s the rundown:
- Supermoon: Technically, a supermoon happens when the moon has a close swing around Earth. They typically occur three or four times a year. Although the moon itself isn’t actually bigger, it will look much larger than usual.
- Harvest Moon: The Harvest Moon is the full moon that happens closest to the autumn equinox, which occurs on Sunday, Sept. 22 this year.
- Partial lunar eclipse: A partial lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, which causes a shadow to fall onto the latter celestial body. Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye.
Want to see the supermoon and partial eclipse on Tuesday in San Diego? The full moon is scheduled to rise at 7:34 p.m. local time. The moon will be just over the horizon, so you’ll want to look to the east.
Do note that the partial eclipse will only make the moon appear like a tiny chunk is hidden in shadow, and it isn’t as dramatic as a total lunar eclipse. If you want to check out a full lunar eclipse, the next one will be visible in San Diego and North America on March 13, 2025.
In La Jolla, one of the best places to see celestial phenomenon like eclipses or a supermoon in San Diego is Mount Soledad.
In the mood for other celestial phenomenon? Check out our guide to the rare “Scrippshenge” event that happens once or twice a year in La Jolla.
Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
