Get Ready For A Supersized Supermoon Over South Dakota!

The moon over South Dakota will be putting on a spectacular show as it appears larger and brighter during what astronomers call a "Supermoon".

What Makes This Moon So Special?

October's supermoon kicks off a trio of these celestial events this year. A supermoon occurs when a full moon reaches the point in its orbit closest to Earth, making it appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than the faintest moon of the year.

Tonight, Monday, Oct. 6, the moon will pass within approximately 224,600 miles of our planet.

How to Catch the Show

The best news? Everyone can witness this supermoon without any special equipment, provided South Dakota's skies stay clear.

However, the size difference can be challenging to detect unless you've been moon-watching in the nights leading up to the event.

What's Coming Next?

Don't worry if you miss Monday's show. November will bring an even closer supermoon, followed by another in December.

Looking ahead to 2026, lunar eclipse enthusiasts can anticipate two remarkable events: a total eclipse visible across much of North America, Asia, and Australia in March, and a partial eclipse in August spanning the Americas, Africa, and Europe.

Bundle up and enjoy the show, South Dakota!