It’s a new month in the lunar cycle, which means another full moon is on the calendar. In October, that full moon is called the “Hunter’s Full Moon”. Sounds intriguing, like something out of a YA novel or supernatural series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer. We’re also heading into spooky season, with Hallowe’en on the horizon, adding to the supernatural aura around this full moon. Let’s dive into it.
In 2025, the Hunter’s Full Moon is even more powerful. That’s because it’s also set to be a Supermoon.
When will the Hunter’s (or Harvest) Full Moon happen in Australia?
According to Time and Date, the October full moon will reach its peak illumination on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. You can check the exact times for your location here.
This year, the October full moon will be a little extra special. It is both a Hunter’s Moon and a Harvest Moon, depending on how the lunar calendar falls. Usually, the Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the September equinox. However, in 2025, that honour belongs to October rather than September.
Adding to the spectacle, this full moon will also be a supermoon. This means it will appear slightly larger and brighter in the sky as the moon reaches perigee — its closest point to Earth in its orbit.
Why is it called the Hunter’s Moon (and also the Harvest Moon)?
Like most other moon names, it’s related to the Northern Hemisphere’s farming and hunting cycles. After the crops were gathered under the light of the Harvest Moon, hunters would take advantage of the bright evenings that followed to track game. Hence, the Hunter’s Moon.
When the full moon appears nearest the September equinox, it takes the title Harvest Moon. Traditionally, farmers would use its bright light to harvest into the night ahead of winter. Because this year’s full moon falls a little later, it holds both names. It’s the Harvest Moon by timing, and the Hunter’s Moon by tradition.
However, our seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere, so it actually signals the coming of spring and summer.
What makes this full moon special?
This October’s full moon will be a supermoon, appearing up to around 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter than when the moon is farthest from Earth.
Because it rises soon after sunset, the supermoon also can appear more golden or orange when it’s near the horizon. This striking effect is caused by the thicker layer of atmosphere that the light must pass through.
How to see the Hunter’s Full Moon?
You won’t need any special equipment — just a clear sky, an open view of the eastern horizon, and ideally a location with minimal light pollution.
For the most dramatic view, step outside just after moonrise, when it appears low, glowing and oversized. Beaches, headlands, or hilltops offer the best vantage points for watching it climb the sky.
If you’re in a city, plan to catch it rising between buildings or across open parkland. But bring a camera, because this supermoon will be one to remember.
Can the full moon affect you?
As with all full moons, some people say they can feel its effects — physically or emotionally. A 2013 study published in Current Biology found that participants slept less deeply and took longer to fall asleep during a full moon, even in completely darkened conditions.
Astrologically and spiritually, full moons are seen as moments of culmination and clarity — a time to celebrate what’s come to fruition and release what’s no longer serving you. With the Hunter’s (or Harvest) Moon’s themes of gathering, gratitude, and preparation, it’s an especially fitting time to reflect on what you’ve “harvested” this year and what you’re ready to let go of before the next season begins.
If you would like to see if this moon could affect your horoscope, check out our astrologer’s predictions for October here.
