The August night sky is preparing to witness a Super Blue Moon, the second supermoon of the month, in a highly anticipated celestial event. Stargazers and astronomers from all over the world will be treated to a sp
ectacular display of lunar phenomena on the evening of August 30.
This Super Blue Moon is unique because it coincides with a number of different lunar events. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), this full moon is not only the third in a season with typically only three full moons, giving it the nickname “Blue Moon,” but it also occurs at perigee, the moon’s closest point to Earth in its orbit.
This convergence will cause the moon to appear about 7% larger than the typical full moon. Even though this difference may not be visible to the unaided eye, it is a rare occurrence that is sure to interest astronomy enthusiasts.
Three to four times a year, there are supermoons, when the moon’s elliptical orbit brings it in close proximity to Earth. Blue Moons, which make up only about 3% of full moons, are even more uncommon. The time between Super Blue Moons can differ significantly, occasionally lasting up to two decades.
The elliptical orbit, 29.5-day cycle, and location of the moon in relation to Earth all coincide to produce the Super Blue Moon phenomenon. It’s crucial to make clear that the phrase “Blue Moon” refers to a particular lunar event rather than the moon’s colour.
The Super Blue Moon of August 2023 promises to be a breathtaking sight, providing a glimpse of the amazing alignment of lunar phenomena, even though the moon won’t actually be blue.
