What is a Supermoon in Astrology? Plus, the Scientific Definition

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Everything you need to know about how this lunar event can affect you
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The moon is a significant aspect of astrology, so it's no wonder supermoons have special meaning as well. In fact, the term supermoon was originally coined by an astrologer, and many astrologers agree that it can have extra influence on a person's life and emotions. If you're curious about a supermoon's meaning in astrology, you've come to the right place. Read on for everything you need to know about this beautiful phenomenon.

What Are Supermoons & What Do They Mean?

A supermoon occurs when the moon is full and gets unusually close to Earth, making it look much larger in the sky. Spiritually, a supermoon tends to boost energy and intensify emotions. The phase of the moon and the ruling zodiac sign at the time of the supermoon may influence how you experience this period of heightened energy.

Section 1 of 6:

What does a supermoon mean astrologically?

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    In astrology, the moon represents your underlying emotions. Your moon sign, for example, represents your inner self (including your emotions, feelings, and natural instincts). When a supermoon occurs, you'll feel these emotions with more intensity. [1]
    • Repressed feelings or desires may come to light during a supermoon.
    • You may experience more tension or passion in your relationships.
    • You may feel a surge of intuition and want to manifest something in your life.
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    Each supermoon is ruled by where it falls on the zodiac calendar. The ruling zodiac sign gives each supermoon its particular "flavor" based on the main qualities of that zodiac sign. If the supermoon is in your zodiac sign, these effects are even more powerful. [2] To find out what sign the moon is in, use a website like Deluxe Moon or a free app like My Moon Phase.
    • If the supermoon is in a fire sign (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), you may feel particularly confident, passionate, ambitious, and impulsive.
    • If the supermoon is in an earth sign (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn), you may feel extra grounded and in tune with the physical world.
    • If the supermoon is in a water sign (Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio), expect to feel extra sensitive and deeply connected to others.
    • If the supermoon is in an air sign (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius), your mental energy and desire to socialize may be unusually strong.
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Section 2 of 6:

What does the supermoon mean spiritually?

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    The moon (especially the full moon) has always played a significant role in spiritual practices because of its strong connection to our emotions, dreams, and intuition. Many believe that a supermoon's magnified energy can enhance spiritual practices. For example, your rituals and spells may be more effective, and it's also a powerful time for self-reflection, journaling, and personal growth.
Section 3 of 6:

Rituals & Practices to Try During a Supermoon

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    This is an auspicious time to perform any full moon ritual , especially a manifestation ritual, since the supermoon's energy is abundant and intense. Start by setting a clear intention for what you want to manifest and then write that desire down on a piece of paper. When you're done, store the paper in a safe place. [3]
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    Emotions are already running high, so it's a great time to acknowledge and release them. Try journaling about any negative thoughts and emotions you're experiencing during a supermoon. You can also write down what you want to release on a piece of paper and then burn it. Imagine yourself letting go as the paper goes up in flames. [4]
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    Moonlight has the power to cleanse and charge crystals , and this power is particularly strong during a supermoon since the moon is so bright. Just place your crystals outside in a safe place and leave them overnight so they can absorb the moonlight. [5]
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Section 4 of 6:

What is the scientific definition of a supermoon?

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    Astronomers refer to this point on the moon's orbit as perigee. When the moon reaches perigee, it appears much larger than usual. From Earth, a supermoon can look up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon. [6]
    • A supermoon is usually about 224,000 miles (360,000 km) or closer to Earth. The farthest point in the moon's orbit (called the apogee) is about 253,000 miles (405,500 km) from Earth.
    • Some astronomers only refer to the closest new moon and full moon as supermoons, but many publications consider a moon a supermoon as long as it gets close to perigee (within about 90% of the closest point). [7]
Section 5 of 6:

How often does a supermoon occur?

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    They will appear consecutively, or 2-4 months in a row, while the moon is closest to Earth. [8] Here are the dates of the supermoons in 2024 and 2025: [9]
    • August 19, 2024
    • September 18, 2024
    • October 17, 2024
    • November 15, 2024
    • November 5, 2025
    • December 4, 2025 [10]
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Section 6 of 6:

The History of Supermoons

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    Historically, supermoons have been thought to influence seismic activity on earth, increasing the risk of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions (this myth has since been discredited by scientists). The supermoon does, however, increase the pull of ocean tides. Since the moon is closer to earth during a supermoon, its gravitational pull is stronger. This contributes to higher tides than usual. [11]
    • Though the term supermoon was originally coined by an astrologer, the term has since been adopted by scientists and astronomers. [12]

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      References

      1. ↑ https://cafeastrology.com/2021-moon-phases.html
      2. ↑ https://my.astrofame.com/astrology/article/full-moon-zodiac-effects
      3. ↑ https://www.gaia.com/article/7-spiritual-supermoon-rituals-try-tonight
      4. ↑ https://adventureyogi.com/blog/harness-the-full-moons-power-a-guided-release-ritual/
      5. ↑ https://www.gaia.com/article/7-spiritual-supermoon-rituals-try-tonight
      6. ↑ https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/moon/what-is-a-supermoon/
      7. ↑ https://www.almanac.com/what-supermoon
      8. ↑ https://science.nasa.gov/moon/supermoons/
      9. ↑ https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/what-is-a-supermoon/
      1. ↑ https://in-the-sky.org/news.php?id=20251204_08_101
      2. ↑ https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/mondays-supermoon-has-a-tide-shifting-twist
      3. ↑ https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/moon/what-is-a-supermoon/

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