Get ready for a spectacular celestial event! The Supermoon Blue Moon is coming and will be a sight to behold. This rare phenomenon will light up the night sky, offering stargazers and casual observers a stunning view.
What is a Supermoon?
When a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, this approach makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual. The term “supermoon” was first coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979. According to NASA, a supermoon can appear up to 30% brighter and 14% larger than a regular full moon.
What is a Blue Moon?
A Blue Moon is a term used to describe the second full moon in a calendar month. Despite its name, the moon doesn’t appear blue. The phrase “once in a blue moon” comes from the rarity of this event, which happens roughly once every two to three years.
The Supermoon Blue Moon
This month, we are in for a treat as we will witness a Supermoon Blue Moon. This means that not only will the moon be at its closest point to Earth, but it will also be the second full moon of the month. The upcoming full moon will occur at 2:26 p.m. EDT (1826 GMT) on Monday, August 19, 2024. This combination makes it a rare and special event.
When and Where to See It
The Supermoon Blue Moon will be visible on the night of August 19, 2024. To get the best view, find a spot away from city lights where the sky is clear. The moon will rise and be visible throughout the night. For the most impressive view, try to catch the moonrise or moonset, when the moon appears largest due to the “moon illusion”.
The Moon Illusion
The moon illusion is a trick of perception where the moon looks much larger near the horizon than it does high in the sky. This happens because our brain compares the moon to nearby objects like trees and buildings, making it appear larger. When the moon is higher up, there’s nothing to compare it to, so it looks smaller.
Why This Event is Special
This Supermoon Blue Moon is special for several reasons:
- It’s a rare event that combines two unique lunar phenomena.
- It offers a great opportunity for photographers and stargazers to capture stunning images of the moon.
- It’s a chance to witness one of nature’s most beautiful displays.
How to Photograph the Supermoon Blue Moon
If you’re interested in photographing the Supermoon Blue Moon, here are some tips:
- Use a tripod: To avoid blurry images, use a tripod to keep your camera steady.
- Use a telephoto lens: A telephoto lens will help you capture the details of the moon’s surface.
- Adjust your settings: Use a low ISO setting to reduce noise, and adjust the aperture and shutter speed to get the right exposure.
- Experiment with composition: Try to include objects in the foreground, like trees or buildings, to give a sense of scale.
Fun Facts About the Moon
- The moon is about 384,400 kilometers (238,855 miles) from Earth.
- The moon’s surface is covered in craters, created by impacts from meteoroids.
- The moon has no atmosphere, so there’s no weather or wind.
- The moon’s gravity is about one-sixth that of Earth’s, so you would weigh much less on the moon.
Upcoming Supermoons
If you miss this Supermoon Blue Moon, don’t worry! More supermoons are coming up. The next supermoons will occur on September 17, October 17, and November 15, 2024. Each will offer another chance to see the moon at its brightest and largest.
