Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat on August 19 as a rare super blue moon lights up the night sky. This extraordinary event, combining the phenomena of a supermoon and a blue moon, will be one of the brightest and largest moons of 2024, making it a unique spectacle.
It’s worth noting that the moon can sometimes appear larger due to an optical effect known as the “moon illusion.” When the moon is near the horizon, our brains compare it to nearby objects like buildings or trees, making it seem bigger. However, when the moon is high in the sky without any reference points, it often appears smaller.
What Is a Super Blue Moon?
A super blue moon is a combination of three lunar phenomena: a full moon, a blue moon, and a supermoon. The term “blue moon” refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons or the second full moon in a calendar month. This August’s blue moon falls under the seasonal definition. It will not appear blue in color; the term “blue moon” is a misnomer, stemming from a historical misinterpretation of the lunar cycle.
Retired NASA Program Executive Gordon Johnston explained, “While the moon won’t actually appear blue, this is considered a Blue Moon because it’s the third full moon in a season with four full moons. The term ‘Blue Moon’ was first recorded in English in 1528.”
How to View the Super Blue Moon
The super blue moon will be visible on August 19 at 11:56 PM IST and will remain full in the sky for the next three days. To get the best view, find a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the horizon. Experts suggest using a telescope or binoculars to enhance visibility and reveal more details of the moon’s surface. Be sure to check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies.
Upcoming Supermoons
In addition to the August super blue moon, three more supermoons are scheduled for 2024. The Harvest Moon will occur on September 17, partially eclipsed by Earth’s shadow. The Hunter’s Moon will follow on October 17, and the final supermoon of the year will be on November 15. Each of these moons presents a unique opportunity to witness celestial events.
Significance and Rarity
The super blue moon is a rare event, with such a combination of supermoon and blue moon happening irregularly, approximately once every 10 to 20 years. The next occurrences of a super blue moon are projected for January and March 2037. This makes the August 2024 event particularly special for sky enthusiasts.
This supermoon is particularly special as it coincides with Raksha Bandhan, a traditional Indian festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. As you enjoy the festival’s celebrations, take a moment to look up and witness this extraordinary celestial event.