Tonight the sky will feature a Supermoon Blue Moon – a truly rare celestial event

On this Monday night of August 19, sky watchers will have the chance to observe a spectacular and uncommon lunar event: the Supermoon Blue Moon. This combination of two relatively rare occurrences makes it a noteworthy event for those interested in astronomy or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful night sky featuring our closest celestial neighbor.

What Is a Supermoon?

A Supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. When this happens, the moon appears slightly larger and brighter than a regular full moon. While the difference isn’t Hollywood-style dramatic to the naked eye, it does make the moon appear more prominent in the sky.

What Is a Blue Moon?

A Blue Moon refers to the second full moon within a single calendar month, a rare occurrence that typically happens once every two to three years. Despite the name, the moon doesn’t actually turn blue; the term is just a way of identifying this additional full moon.

The August 2024 Supermoon Blue Moon

August 19 brings together both of these phenomena, creating what’s known as a Supermoon Blue Moon. While each event alone is not globally noteworthy, the combination of the two is rare and worth checking out. This night will feature a full moon that appears a bit larger and brighter than usual and will be the second full moon of the month to boot.

How to Watch the Supermoon Blue Moon

For those interested in viewing this event, the Supermoon Blue Moon will be visible shortly after sunset tonight. No special equipment is needed to enjoy the view, but if you have binoculars or a telescope, you might appreciate the finer details of the lunar surface. To get the best experience, try to find a location away from city lights, where the sky is darker. Fortunately, Montgomery County is filled with quiet areas away from the hustle and bustle.

Woodlands Online

Visit Our Business Listing Visit Website