On Monday night, sky gazers will have the opportunity to witness a rare celestial event – a blue supermoon. This phenomenon occurs when a full moon coincides with two unique events: a supermoon and a blue moon. The supermoon aspect refers to when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, appearing larger and brighter in the night sky. Meanwhile, a blue moon specifically refers to the third of four full moons in a single season.
The upcoming blue supermoon is a relatively uncommon occurrence, typically happening once every 10 years. However, last August also saw a super blue moon, making this year’s event even more special. NASA has confirmed that the moon has met the criteria for this rare event for two consecutive years, providing sky watchers with a unique viewing opportunity.
### What to Expect from Monday’s Blue Supermoon
To witness Monday’s blue supermoon in all its glory, observers should look out for the moon reaching its peak fullness at 2:26 p.m. EDT. While the moon may not appear noticeably different to the naked eye, there are ways to enhance the viewing experience. Watching the moon rise or set in the east or west respectively can create a “moon illusion,” making it appear larger when viewed alongside foreground objects in the surrounding area.
For those interested in a more detailed view, using a telescope or binoculars can provide a closer look at the moon’s surface. Although the moon will appear full for three days, Monday’s event is the only true supermoon of the period, offering a unique opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle.
### Understanding Supermoons and Blue Moons
Supermoons occur several times a year when the moon’s elliptical orbit brings it closest to Earth, resulting in a larger and brighter appearance. The term “supermoon” was first coined in 1979 to describe this phenomenon, also known scientifically as a perigee full moon. Perigee refers to the point in the moon’s orbit where it is closest to Earth, typically around 226,000 miles away.
In contrast, a blue moon is determined by the frequency of full moons within a given period. Monthly blue moons occur when two full moons appear in the same month, while seasonal blue moons are the third of four full moons in a season. The sturgeon moon, as August’s full moon is known, takes its name from Native American traditions, where it signifies the time for catching sturgeon fish in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain.
### Upcoming Supermoons to Look Out For
If you miss the opportunity to view Monday’s blue supermoon, there are still three more supermoons to look forward to this year. While they may not be blue supermoons, these events will still offer a brighter and larger appearance than regular full moons.
The next supermoon is set to occur on September 18, known as a super harvest moon due to its proximity to the autumnal equinox. This event will also feature a partial lunar eclipse, adding to the spectacle. Following this, supermoons are scheduled for October 17 and November 15, providing additional opportunities to witness the moon in all its glory.
Looking ahead, the next seasonal blue supermoon is expected in 2032, while monthly blue supermoons will make a return in 2037 according to Space.com. These rare celestial events offer a unique opportunity to marvel at the beauty and wonder of the cosmos, reminding us of the vastness and complexity of the universe.
