Celestial Wonders: A Rare Blue Supermoon Awaits

• This Monday will feature a rare blue supermoon, the third in a season of four full moons.
• Supermoons occur when the moon is in its full phase and is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth.
• This year has already seen extraordinary celestial events, including a total solar eclipse and stunning northern lights.

The Marvel of Supermoons

This year has been nothing short of a cosmic feast for skywatchers! From a total solar eclipse to the return of the devil comet in April, and multiple nights filled with the mesmerizing dance of colorful northern lights, our celestial neighbors have been putting on quite the show. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, Monday promises a rare sight: a blue supermoon.

But what exactly is a supermoon? According to NASA, it occurs when the moon is in its new or full phase and is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. Since new moons are a little more shy and less visible to us earthlings than their full counterparts, we tend to focus on the full moon phase.

This blue supermoon will shine at its perigee—the closest point to Earth—hovering approximately 226,000 miles away. For a little perspective, when it’s at its farthest, known as apogee, it can be as far as 253,000 miles.

The Mystery of the Blue Moon

Now, it’s important to clarify that this blue supermoon won’t be quite like your favorite blue moon ice cream. The “blue” part refers to it being the third full moon in a season that features four full moons. It can also mean the second full moon occurring in the same month. In fact, this will be August’s only full moon for the year!

NASA shares that the origins of the term “blue moon” remain somewhat of a mystery. Some theories suggest it relates to its historical timing with Easter and Lent, which are influenced by the lunar calendar. Others think it stems from a period when atmospheric dust turned the moon a bluish hue.

No Need to Panic!

If you’re worried about missing this enchanting event, fret not! This blue supermoon is merely the first of four consecutive supermoons this year. So, if you don’t catch this one, more opportunities lie ahead!

Jon’s Take

As we prepare for this cosmic encounter, it’s a wonderful reminder that the universe is full of surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or a curious newcomer, every glance upward can ignite a sense of wonder. Who knows what lies beyond our atmosphere, waiting for us to discover? The truth isn’t just out there – it’s right here, in the night sky above us!


Original Article