talking to the moon

Each month, around the world, we’re treated to a spectacular full moon. The moon rises and falls every single day but the times that it does this, how much of it we can see and how strongly we can see it changes every day. When the moon rises around sunset time it will be at its fullest delivering gorgeous colours - provided that there are no clouds in the way. Then early the next day you’ll be treated to a full moonset when the moon descends in the sky at sunrise.

In honour of the full moon that just passed in October, this fortnight’s edition is rebranded as ‘The Moonrise Chaser’ and it features one of my favourite-ever bucket list recommendations - a moon viewing experience like no other.

Every once in a while, like there was in August this year, there is a blue moon which is when a full moon occurs twice within one calendar month - the next is in May 2026. Pop in your calendars now.

The moon also changes astrological sign frequently, the last one was in Taurus and the next, in November, will be in Gemini. Normal ‘The Sunrise Chaser’ service will resume next issue, but until then we’re off to the Moon.

predicting tip

Here is where I’ll share an additional or new tip to help with your sunrise and sunset chasing.

what in the world…

Inspiration to improve your dedication

sky of the fortnight

In a small montage of October’s full moon, you’ll see there was a band of thick grey cloud which blocked the view of the Moon for what felt like a long ten minutes. When it finally popped up though the sun was about forty minutes from setting which presented the moon on a canvas of many blues.

where to visit?

Despite Portugal being very much a country that looks out to the west, the geography of its capital Libson means that the city predominantly faces southeast. Overlooking the Tagus River makes it the perfect place to watch the sunrise in the morning and, during the right conditions, a moonrise in the evening. I visited twice in one year for work so here are some of my favourite things about this wonderful place.

out the window

Whenever I travel somewhere I am often looking for places to stay that have a unique or mind-blowing view.

One of the most famous hotels in the whole world, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is not only a great spot for taking in a sunset, from the earth’s largest infinity pool, but if you get a room facing east you’ll be treated to sunrise views plus full moonrise views at the right time of the month. Overlooking the country’s Gardens by the Bay attraction with a slew of boats out at sea gives a majestic view.

@dwaroundtheworld

#sunriseprediction #sunrisepredictor

sky chaser kit bag

Items that can help you be a better sky chaser. 

Get as close as possible to seeing the craters of the Moon with these binoculars. They also come with a contraption that will allow you to attach your phone to take pictures and videos on a super zoom - a definite selling point for me.

bucket list

Sunrise and sunset spots from around the world I’m desperate to visit. Drop me an email (reply to this) to share your favourites for the chance to be featured. This is also a great way for me to highlight other wonderful creators you may want to follow.

sunrise spot

Anywhere that has a good sunrise view should also deliver a decent moonrise view. The biggest challenge with full moonrise is that it doesn’t happen every day, so bad weather will scupper you. I’ve selected the below sunrise spot, which should also give excellent full moonrise views, it’s Constance Halaveli in the Maldives. Why the Maldives? First off, who doesn’t want to visit the Maldives and secondly, there are fewer tall buildings around to block your view.

sunset spot

Staircase to the Moon opportunities may have ceased for 2023, but it’s the perfect time to get planning for the 2024 season. The first time you can see this natural phenomenon in Australia will be on 25th March. This is an amazing sight that takes place along the Pilbara and Kimberley Coastline in Western Australia. The full moon rises in the east across the exposed tidal flats to create the impression of a lunar staircase. Check out this website for tips.

@ausbackpacker

Optical Illusion in Australia’s North West! We saw this last night, it’s also happening tonight 11.10 and tomorrow night 12.10 - head down... See more

blame it on the moon

There are a few weeks until November’s full moon, due on the 27th of the month. Rising in the sign of Gemini, it would be worth checking out this website to ensure you see it on the correct day wherever you are located - but remember the day on either side can also give beautiful views.

I hope this lunar update gave you some celestial inspiration.

If you don’t already follow the phases of the moon the website mentioned above is the best way to track it.

Happy moon chasing!

DW

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