The Rare Super Blue Moon Lighting Up the Sky On August 30
Attention all stargazers! Brace yourselves for a celestial treat as a “blue supermoon” graces the night sky on August 30. This extraordinary event, which occurs only once a decade, promises to be a breathtaking sight that you won't want to miss.
What exactly is this phenomenon? Let's dive into the details.
What is a Blue Moon?
A blue moon refers to the occurrence of a second full moon within a single calendar month. Typically, a full moon happens around every 30 days, but when a blue moon occurs, it's twice within that same month.
The term “blue” has nothing to do with the moon's color; rather, it's all about the rarity of the event. There are two types of blue moons: a seasonal blue moon, which is the third full moon in a season with four full moons, and a monthly blue moon, which is the second full moon in a calendar month. Although initially considered incorrect, the monthly blue moon is now an accepted definition.
Why “Super Blue Moon”?
The upcoming blue moon is even more special because it's also a “supermoon.” This occurs when the moon is both full and at its closest point to Earth in its orbit. As a result, the moon appears about 16% brighter and larger than a typical full moon. Imagine the size difference between a quarter and a nickel – that's the kind of visual impact a supermoon brings. This combination of a blue moon and a supermoon is what makes it a “super blue moon.“
Best Time to Witness the Spectacle
For the optimal viewing experience, catch the full moon just after sunset during the early dusk hours. On August 30, 2023, at precisely 8:37 p.m. EDT, the Super Blue Moon will shine at its brightest. Moonrise during twilight offers the ideal opportunity to marvel at this celestial wonder. If you're in Europe, you're in luck – August 31 brings an additional chance to see the moon rise, a bit later than on Wednesday.
A Rarity to Remember
The convergence of a blue moon and a supermoon is a truly rare occurrence. According to NASA, blue supermoons only happen about once every ten years due to specific astronomical conditions. These unique moons account for a mere 3% of all full moons, while supermoons in general constitute around 25%.
The gap between super blue moons can vary greatly, sometimes stretching up to 20 years, but the average interval is approximately a decade. The next pair of super blue moons is expected to grace the skies in 2037, appearing in January and March.
So, set your reminders and mark your calendars for the night of August 30. A remarkable celestial show awaits as the blue supermoon captivates our gaze, casting its luminous glow and creating an unforgettable memory for all those who look up in awe. Don't miss this chance to witness the magic of the universe right above you.
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