Super Harvest Moon to Light Up Bahrain’s Night Sky on Monday

MANAMA, Bahrain – Stargazers and night-sky enthusiasts are in for a stunning treat as the much-anticipated Super Harvest Moon is set to illuminate Bahrain’s skies on Monday night, marking a unique astronomical event that blends beauty with cultural significance.

Renowned Bahraini astronomer Mohammed Redha Al Asfour explained that this phenomenon coincides with the full moon of Rabi Al-Thani 1447 AH and is especially noteworthy as it’s the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, which occurred on September 22.

“The Harvest Moon has been celebrated for centuries, particularly by Native American tribes who used its bright light to extend their harvest hours,” said Al Asfour. “Its glow allowed more time for gathering crops before the frost arrived hence the name Harvest Moon.”

What makes this year’s Harvest Moon even more spectacular is that it’s also a supermoon. The moon will reach its perigee the closest point in its elliptical orbit around Earthat a distance of about 360,000 kilometers. This proximity makes it appear larger and brighter than a typical full moon.

Moonrise: Monday, 4:48 PM
 Peak Illumination: Tuesday, 6:47 AM
Moonset: Tuesday, 5:34 AM
 Next Rise: Tuesday evening, 5:24 PM

Al Asfour advised skywatchers to head outdoors during moonrise and moonset, when the moon appears closest to the horizon. These moments offer the most striking views and the best photo opportunities under Bahrain’s clear autumn skies.

Adding to the celestial rhythm, Al Asfour also noted that next month the moon will reach its farthest point from Earth, offering a contrasting visual experience in the night sky.

So whether you're an astronomy buff, a casual sky gazer, or a night-time photographer, this is one spectacle you won’t want to miss.