A stunning super blue moon event, which may not be seen again for the next 14 years, has been captured in a collection of mesmerising photos from around the globe.
A ‘blue moon’ is a phenomenon that occurs when the moon’s cycle, which lasts about 29 and a half days, coincides with a full moon at the beginning and end of a month, as was the case in August of this year.
Strangely, despite the moon’s continued colour, this rarity gave rise to the phrase “once in a blue moon.”
A Super Blue Moon, also known as a Perigee Moon, is a full moon that also happens to be in its ‘perigee’, or closest point to Earth, as defined by NASA.
The moon, despite its name, looks the same but illuminates remarkably, shining about 30% brighter than usual and appearing about 14% larger.
Two supermoons appearing in the same month for the first time in five years; the next time isn’t predicted to happen until 2037. Supermoons, in contrast to fleeting shooting stars or subtle comets, command the night sky with their striking presence.
The moon’s apparent size can occasionally match that of the sun due to its proximity, according to renowned astronomer Professor Don Pollacco from the University of Warwick.
Sky watchers from all over the world are drawn to the Super Blue Moon by its allure and eagerly anticipate this exceptional astronomical event.
The iconic “golden arches” sign of a Nicosia McDonald’s restaurant and cellular broadcast antenna towers are in the background as the Super Blue Moon rises.
The second full moon of the month rises in Istanbul, behind the Galata Tower.
The “Blue Supermoon” rises against the backdrop of a Nicosia building rooftop.
