In pictures: Skywatchers enjoy partial eclipse and supermoon

The 'Harvest Moon' rises behind the partially built Capel Island lighthouse in East Cork. Wednesday's full Moon was also a 'Supermoon' - appearing about 30 percent brighter than usual - and was accompanied by a partial lunar eclipse. Picture: Cian O'Regan

Skywatchers have been treated to a partial lunar eclipse and a supermoon, all rolled into one.

The spectacle was visible in clear skies in Ireland and across Europe on Wednesday morning, with many catching a glimpse of the rare occurrence.

Those in North America and South America were also treated to the phenomenon on Tuesday night.

A partial lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the sun and moon, casting a shadow that darkens a sliver of the moon and appears to take a bite out of it.

This year’s Harvest Moon took place on September 17 Unusually, on the same night there will be a partial lunar eclipse and the Harvest Moon itself will also be classed as a supermoon. The two phenomena are not linked – it is chance that they both occur on the same night.

A Harvest Moon rises behind the Roches Point Lighthouse in Cork Harbour. Picture: David Creedon

The view from Cork City of the partial lunar eclipse which occurred on Wednesday morning. This full Moon was also a 'Supermoon' - appearing about 30 percent brighter than usual - as well as being the closest full Moon to the autumn equinox, giving it the name 'Harvest Moon'. Picture: Cian O'Regan

The Harvest full moon rising behind Dun Laoghaire harbour, Co Dublin. Picture: Naoise Culhane

The supermoon is one of three remaining this year (AP)