What Makes a Full Moon in 2017
A full moon occurs when the Moon is opposite the Sun in ecliptic longitude, reaching its brightest phase for the month. In 2017, there were 12 full moons, each with a date, approximate time, and traditional name rooted in culture, season, and natural observation. Below is a concise overview of each full moon in 2017, its timing, and the commonly used name.
| Month | Date (2017) | Approximate Time (UTC) | Common Traditional Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 12 | 19:34 | Wolf Moon |
| February | February 11 | 07:53 | Snow Moon |
| March | March 12 | 23:54 | Worm Moon |
| April | April 11 | 02:06 | Pink Moon |
| May | May 10 | 21:26 | Flower Moon |
| June | June 9 | 16:10 | Strawberry Moon |
| July | July 9 | 04:07 | Buck Moon |
| August | |||
| September | September 6 | 01:00 | Harvest Moon |
| October | October 5 | 18:40 | Hunter's Moon |
| November | November 4 | 06:23 | Beaver Moon |
| December | December 3 | 15:47 | Cold Moon |
How Full Moons Are Defined Astronomically
The precise moment of a full moon is determined by the ecliptic longitude of the Sun and Moon, not by apparent shape in the sky. In 2017, each full moon moment represents the instant when the Moon was most directly opposite the Sun. Because the Moon’s orbit is elliptical and Earth’s orbit is slightly eccentric, the full moons in 2017 varied in apparent size and brightness. These astronomical events are predictable far into the future and form the basis of many cultural calendars, including Easter, Passover, and various harvest festivals that depend on lunar cycles.
Traditional and Cultural Names for 2017 Full Moons
Full moon names trace back to Indigenous, European, and colonial traditions that observed seasonal changes. While naming conventions differ by culture, many names in modern usage reflect local ecological cues at the time of each full moon. In 2017, the names below correspond to the months listed in the table and are widely recognized in the almanac and astronomy communities.
Winter and Early Year (January–March)
- Wolf Moon (January): Named for the howling of wolves amid cold midwinter nights.
- Snow Moon (February): Reflects the typically heavy snowfall of the month.
- Worm Moon (March): Marks the emergence of earthworms as soil warms, signaling thaw.
Spring and Summer (April–July)
- Pink Moon (April): Named after the pink phlox wildflowers blooming in early spring.
- Flower Moon (May): Reflects the abundant blossoms of late spring.
- Strawberry Moon (June): Coincides with strawberry harvest in many temperate regions.
- Buck Moon (July): Refers to the new antlers that male deer grow in summer.
Late Summer and Autumn (August–October)
- Sturgeon Moon (August): Named for the large sturgeon caught in the Great Lakes.
- Harvest Moon (September): The full moon nearest the autumnal equinox, traditionally aiding farmers’ harvests.
- Hunter's Moon (October): Follows the Harvest Moon and signaled time for hunting to prepare for winter.
Late Year (November–December)
- Beaver Moon (November): Time to set beaver traps before swamps freeze.
- Cold Moon (December): Reflects the deepening winter chill.
Observing the 2017 Full Moons Today
Although 2017 has passed, the pattern of full moon dates recurs on an annual cycle, shifting about 11 days earlier each year due to the difference between the lunar and solar years. In 2017, the Harvest Moon occurred in September, producing several evenings of moonrise close to sunset, which aided agricultural work historically. For sky watchers, checking an ephemeris or almanac for precise moonrise and moonset times allows planning for photography or observation. Many of the traditional names remain useful cultural touchstones, even if the exact timing of each full moon continues to follow predictable astronomical mechanics.
Practical Tips for Sky Watchers
- Plan around moonrise: Full moons rise near sunset and set near sunrise, providing all-night illumination.
- Use a lunar calendar: Match the traditional name to the month for context and cultural background.
- Photography settings: Use a low ISO and moderate aperture to capture surface detail; a tripod reduces motion blur.
- Check local conditions: Clouds and light pollution affect visibility; seek darker skies for best viewing.
Full Moon Names Across Cultures
Various cultures have their own lunar observances and names. For example, some Indigenous groups use nature-based markers such as budding or harvesting, while Western almanacs popularized many of the names now common in North America. These traditions often align with agricultural cycles and ecological events. Understanding the origin of each name enriches sky watching and connects modern observers to historical practices. The 2017 full moon names represent a blend of these longstanding traditions.