Hunter’s Moon: When the rare lunar spectacle and Saturn will appear in Kenya

Kenyans will have an opportunity to observe October’s Hunter’s Moon on Monday, October 26, with Saturn also visible in the night sky, offering skywatchers two celestial sights to look out for.

The full Moon will reach peak illumination at 7:11 am Kenyan time on Monday. However, observers will not need to wait until that moment, as the Moon will appear almost full on Sunday evening and Monday night.

Across Kenya, the Moon will rise in the eastern sky during the evening. On Monday, it is expected to rise at approximately 6:37 pm, shortly after sunset at around 6:21 pm.

The best time to watch it is shortly after it rises, when it appears close to the horizon and may take on an orange or reddish colour.

NASA, in its October skywatching guide published on October 1, 2026, highlighted several celestial events to watch during the month, including Saturn’s visibility and the Moon’s approach to the Pleiades star cluster later in the week.

Saturn will also be visible in Kenya’s evening sky. The planet is expected to rise at approximately 4:50 pm on Monday and remain visible until around 4:52 am on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, weather permitting.

It may appear as a golden point of light near the Moon. However, the bright lunar glow could make Saturn more difficult to distinguish.

Skywatchers can spot Saturn with the naked eye under suitable conditions, while binoculars or a telescope can reveal more detail.

The Hunter’s Moon is the traditional name for October’s full Moon, which follows September’s Harvest Moon.

The name is linked to seasonal hunting practices, when people relied on the Moon’s bright light to track game as autumn progressed and daylight hours shortened.

The moon may appear orange or reddish as it rises. This effect occurs because its light passes through a thicker layer of Earth’s atmosphere near the horizon, scattering shorter blue wavelengths and allowing warmer colours to stand out.

For the best chance of seeing the spectacle, observers should choose an open location with a clear view of the eastern horizon, preferably away from tall buildings, trees and bright artificial lights.

In Nairobi, open areas around Karura Forest, subject to access rules and opening hours, may offer a break from some city lights. The Ngong Hills area can also provide wide views of the sky. Visitors should check access arrangements before travelling.

Outside the capital, open countryside like Samburu and locations with an unobstructed eastern horizon may provide good viewing opportunities. Clear skies will be essential for the best experience.

No telescope is needed to enjoy the full moon, making the event accessible to skywatchers across the country.

The moon is also expected to pass close to the Pleiades, commonly known as the Seven Sisters, on the night of October 27 into October 28, offering another opportunity to observe the night sky.

William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]

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