The full moon in October is also known as the “hunter’s moon” because it marks the beginning of the hunting season, signaling to hunters to begin preparing for colder conditions, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. The “hunter’s moon” follows the “harvest moon,” a moon phase that signals the best time for harvesters to reap their crops.

The Hunter's Moon is the full moon following the Harvest Moon. It rises around the same time for several nights, providing early light for fall harvests and hunting activities. The Farmer's Almanac explains that the term "Hunter's Moon" refers to the period after leaves have fallen, making prey easier to spot for hunters with the added moonlight.

Supermoons rise between three and four times a year. A supermoon occurs when a full moon passes closest to Earth, making it appear brighter and bigger. The Hunter’s Moon, the full moon following the Harvest Moon, gets its name from the time of year it occurs. The Oxford English Dictionary’s earliest written use of the term is from 1710.

The Hunter’s Moon is hanging heavy in the October sky. If the full moon is looking extra-large, it’s because it is supersized this month. The Hunter’s Moon is the third of four supermoons in 2024, and it is the largest moon of the set.

An Oxford photographer captured a picture of the Hunter's Moon the largest and brightest supermoon of the year.