According to the Astronomical Calendar 2011, by Guy Ottewell, the Hunter's Moon is thus named because "...the fields had been reaped, hunters could ride over the stubble, and could more easily see the fox; also other animals which had come out to glean could be caught for a thanksgiving banquet after the harvest."
One reason for my interest in the moon and the night sky is that my husband and I have a telescope, and we used to enjoy taking it out and observing the night sky. Most astronomers will tell you that fall and winter are the best times to observe the night sky because you can see so much more. In the fall and winter there aren't all the clouds and constant humidity that we have during the summer.
When I looked up October holidays, one of the first that jumped out at me (after Halloween, of course) was Columbus Day, observed on October 10th. According to Wikipedia, during Columbus' time, the techniques of celestial navigation, which use the position of the sun, moon and stars in the sky, were widely used by mariners. Celestial navigation is another of those terms I find fun to pronounce. It has a certain flow to it, and I happen to think celestial is a beautiful word...(1) of, relating to, or suggesting heaven or divinity; (2) of or relating to the sky or visible heavens.
What do you like best about October? There's a lot to choose from -- blue skies, cool evenings, the trees slipping into their fall wardrobe, colorful pumpkins and Mums, and Halloween. Me...I love them all.
Thanks for visiting the House at Forest Manor. Have a great Wednesday!
Denise
I had never heard about the Hunter's Moon. That's interesting. I guess I'm also a big dolt because it never occurred to be (or I don't remember learning) that the night sky was so much more vivid in this season.
ReplyDeleteWhat do I like best about October? I think it's a feeling in the air that's somewhat indescribable.
Yes, the stars do seem more crisp and vibrant in this season. Love to get a bonfire in the fire pit and sit around in a cozy sweatshirt or sweater with tea - stare into the fire and then put my head back and get lost in those stars on a cool evening. Quiet - rest - then bed. Lovely way to end a long day . . .
ReplyDeleteJoy!
Kathy
Aha! I never thought about that!!! The night sky would be much clearer in October! This is a neat post, Denise!
ReplyDeleteI don't know how I missed this post, Denise! I adore the moon. My favorite two 'fall' in my favorite season - Fall! Next full moon I think is Nov. 12th, I have a gadget on my sidebar to alert me. I would love to have a telescope some day. My favorite of all moons - a Blue Moon! xo
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