Astrology enthusiasts and sky gazers alike are getting ready for the extraordinary celestial event known as the Super Blue Moon, which will light up the night sky this August 19, 2024. This fascinating phenomenon combines three exciting cosmic occurrences: a supermoon, the third full moon of summer, and what’s known as a blue moon.
The term ‘supermoon’ refers to the full moon being at its closest point to Earth, technically known as perigee. When this happens, the moon appears about 14% larger and up to 30% brighter than when it is at its apogee, the farthest point from Earth.
Interestingly, this Super Blue Moon is not going to be blue. The name actually describes either the second full moon occurring within one month or the third full moon occurring within one season which contains four full moons.
This summer will witness four full moons: one on June 22, another on July 21, and the upcoming full moon on August 19. The final full moon of summer will occur on September 17, hence qualifying the event of August 19 to be termed as the blue moon.
The celestial show is rare; the last time the world saw such alignment was last year, and it won't happen again until January 2037. NASA explains this irregularity, with supermoons occurring about three or four times each year, whereas blue moons only occur about every 2.5 years.
The 2024 blue moon will be particularly special, as it will be classified as seasonal, occurring when there are four full moons during the summer season. Normally, only three full moons are expected each season, making this occurrence even more unique.
For those eager to witness the sight, moonrise is expected around 7:58 PM local time, shortly after the sun sets. Many astronomy enthusiasts recommend viewing the moon around 10 PM, when it’s high up and best illuminated.
Weather conditions seem variable depending on the location, with predictions of cloud cover potentially obscuring views. For areas like Portland, clouds might interfere, but the moon will still hang bright through early Wednesday morning for those willing to brave evening weather conditions.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the science of it all, but for many, the simply magic of gazing at the moon can’t be overstated. There’s something deeply enchanting about lunar events, drawing crowds outside for communal stargazing.
The increase of moon-related photography has compelled people to position themselves ideally for capturing the perfect shot. Fortuitously, the Super Blue Moon offers such photographic opportunities, with lunar features being much more apparent under the bright light.
While some people miss the minute differences between various moon phases, astronomy experts affirm the significance of such events. With supermoons being visible multiple times every year, it’s not unusual for them to blend together for the casual observer.
Experts advise spectators to bring along binoculars or telescopes for enhanced views of lunar craters. Utilizing such tools allows viewers to appreciate the moon’s surface intimately, turning the event from distant observation to immersive experience.
Those who wish to document their experiences should know the nuts and bolts of good photography, including adjustments for lens settings, ISO, and stabilization techniques to avoid shaky images. With helpful hints and educational resources readily available, anyone can capture stunning moon photography.
Folk wisdom holds the belief about eclipses and the full moon potentially impacting tides or even human behavior; yet studies suggest no clear correlation. Despite various legends and narratives surrounding the moon, enjoying its radiant form may simply be the best approach.
For many cultures, the moon has long been associated with rituals, reflection, or making wishes. Tonight’s Super Blue Moon could be the perfect time to pause, contemplate, and maybe, just maybe, make some lunar wishes.
For anyone who misses the Super Blue Moon on August 19, they can still catch its glow at 98.8% on August 20 and 94.7% on August 21. This means if tonight’s weather doesn’t cooperate, the moon will still offer beautiful brightness for nights to come.
Looking beyond August, the celestial sky offers more events to witness. For astronomy enthusiasts, this is merely the beginning of what promises to be a spectacular month for the cosmos, with more planetary alignments and meteor showers lined up on the horizon.
It’s moments like this, combined with the wonder of nature, which remind humanity of its place among the stars. Amidst the frenzy of daily life, celestial events provide solace and intrigue, urging us to look up and ponder the vast universe beyond.
