OAKLAND, Calif. – From a northern lights show to a once-in-a-lifetime comet streaking across the night sky, parts of Northern California have been treated to some spectacular celestial displays in recent days.

And this week, sky watchers can prepare for another astronomical treat with the arrival of a supermoon that NASA says will be the brightest of the year.

Thursday's full moon will present itself as a supermoon, appearing slightly brighter and larger than an average full moon.

The phenomenon occurs when the moon's orbit is closest to Earth and at the same time the moon is full, NASA explained.

“The Moon will appear full at this time for approximately three days, from Tuesday evening to Friday morning,” the space agency noted.

Because the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, the supermoon will appear largest at moonrise on Wednesday, likely at 6:06 p.m., and at moonset the next morning, according to meteorologist Brian Garcia of the National Weather Service's San Francisco Bay Area office , scheduled for 7:36 a.m

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Weather conditions in the Bay Area are expected to provide good opportunities for viewing the moon show.

KTVU meteorologist Mark Tamayo said increasing winds later this week will lead to clear skies through Thursday afternoon.

Experts recommend trying to catch the supermoon when it is just above the horizon, as at this position the moon can be compared to and framed by buildings and other objects on Earth, giving the impression of the moon bigger than it actually is.

“In terms of weather, you need a clear view of the sky. Some people like to have a few clouds left behind to provide some structure,” Garcia explained.

He added that those wanting cloudless views should stay inland, while coastal areas may offer some texture.

“What about the city lights? The supermoon will be bright enough to be seen anywhere the sky is not obscured,” Garcia explained.

This week's full moon is also known as the Hunter's Moon and follows last month's Harvest Moon.

“According to the Farmer's Almanac, when the leaves fall and the deer are fattened, it is time to hunt,” NASA explained. “Because the harvesters have harvested the fields, hunters can easily spot the animals that have come out to collect (and the foxes that have come out to prey on them).”

The space agency said Thursday will see the third of four consecutive supermoons and the brightest of the year, albeit by a small margin.

The final supermoon of 2024 will occur on Friday, November 15th.