In October 2017, skywatchers and moon enthusiasts tracked the full moon to plan photography sessions, cultural events, and outdoor activities. This guide explains the exact timing, visibility, and related details for the October 2017 full moon.
The following table summarizes key moments and attributes of the full moon during October 2017, making it easy to compare against other months or years.
| Attribute | Value | Notes | Reference Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Moon Date | October 4, 2017 | Exact UTC time: 10:07 | NASA JPL Horizons |
| Full Moon Name | Hunter's Moon | Traditional Native American name for October | Old Farmer's Almanac |
| Moon Phase at Start | Waning Gibbous | After full moon until last quarter | USNO Data Services |
| Best Visibility Regions | Global | Visible from all inhabited continents | Timeanddate.com |
Full Moon Timing in Detail
Exact Full Moon Moment
The full moon in October 2017 occurred on October 4 at 10:07 UTC. For North American time zones, this translated to October 4 in the evening or early October 3 late at night, depending on local offset.
Lunar Visibility by Region
Because the full moon phase lasts approximately 24 hours, observers across regions saw a nearly full disk on both October 3 and October 4. Clear skies provided the best viewing conditions in rural areas away from city lights.
Hunter's Moon Cultural Context
Traditional Significance
The Hunter's Moon is traditionally associated with hunting preparations before winter. Many cultures mark this full moon with festivals, feasts, and stories about the changing seasons.
Modern Celebrations
Today, photographers use this full moon for landscape and wildlife shots, while amateur astronomers host public viewing events. October 2017 saw increased social media sharing of moonrise timelapses.
Photographing the October 2017 Full Moon
Recommended Equipment
For best results, use a telephoto lens or telescope, a sturdy tripod, and low ISO settings to reduce noise. Smartphones with manual controls can capture decent images when paired with a zoom lens or tripod mount.
Timing Your Shoot
Moonrise around sunset offers dramatic compositions with cityscapes or landscapes. Check local moonrise tables for October 2017 to align your schedule, and bracket exposures to preserve detail in both the moon and foreground.
Astronomical Details
Orbital Characteristics
The full moon in October 2017 approached lunar perigee, making the apparent size slightly larger than average. This proximity can enhance visual impact when the moon is near the horizon.
Relation to Other Lunar Events
October 2017 featured no lunar eclipse, but the full moon occurred close to the apogee of the nodal cycle. Skywatchers noted minimal tidal variation compared with spring tide extremes earlier in the year.
Key Takeaways for October 2017 Full Moon
- Full moon date: October 4, 2017 at 10:07 UTC.
- Traditional name: Hunter's Moon, tied to seasonal hunting practices.
- Visible globally with clear skies enhancing photography opportunities.
- No lunar eclipse occurred during this full moon cycle.
- Moonrise near sunset provided compelling composition chances for photographers.
FAQ
Reader questions
When was the full moon in October 2017 in UTC?
October 4, 2017 at 10:07 UTC.
What is the traditional name for the October 2017 full moon?
Hunter's Moon.
Was there a lunar eclipse with the October 2017 full moon?
No, there was no lunar eclipse in October 2017.
Why does the full moon appear larger near the horizon during October 2017?
This is a perceptual effect known as the moon illusion, common at moonrise regardless of the year.