September 14 – 15, 2008 – Moonrise at approximately 6:30. 

This weekend brings a great opportunity to view the Harvest Moon rising over the waters of the Outer Banks.  A large full moon rising over the ocean is a site worth seeing. 

In the northern hemisphere the full moon coming closest to the September 22nd autumn equinox is referred to as the Harvest Moon.

At this time of year in the northern hemisphere the moon rises at a point opposite to the sun, or close to the exact eastern point of the horizon.

The Moon rises only a few minutes later each night, offering several successive evenings with an attractive moonrise close to sunset time and strong moonlight for the majority of the night if the sky is clear.

The strong moonlight after sunset is useful to farmers in northern latitudes who are harvesting their crops, thus the term “Harvest Moon.” 

With the gorgeous weather on the Outer Banks at this time year, it should be a very comfortable night to watch the moonrise…maybe even have your toes dipped into the 70 degree water!

If the sky is clear and you have the time, take advantage of this great opportunity…remember to bring your camera!