Don't miss tonight's rare blue supermoon, the first of four supermoons this year. Learn why it might not appear blue and when to catch the best view.
Tonight marks a rare and spectacular celestial event—the appearance of a blue supermoon. This phenomenon combines two special types of full moons: a supermoon, which occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, and a blue moon, which refers to the second full moon in a calendar month or the third of four full moons in a season. Here's what you need to know to make the most of this rare occurrence.
What is a Blue Supermoon?
A blue supermoon is an exceptional event that happens when a supermoon coincides with a blue moon. Although the term "blue moon" might suggest a moon with a blue hue, the reality is different. Blue moons aren't typically blue in color; the name simply denotes their rarity. The saying "once in a blue moon" originates from this phenomenon, which only occurs once every two to three years.
The First of Four Supermoons
Tonight's blue supermoon is the first of four consecutive supermoons set to appear in the coming months. Following tonight's event, the next supermoons will grace the night sky on September 18th, October 17th, and November 15th. Each of these supermoons will offer a breathtaking view, with tonight's blue supermoon setting the stage for what's to come.
Why the Moon May Not Be Blue
Despite its name, tonight's blue supermoon might not actually appear blue. In fact, due to the ongoing wildfires in the United States, the moon could take on a reddish or orange hue. The particles and dust in the atmosphere from these fires scatter light in a way that can cause the moon to glow with a warm, fiery color. This effect, known as Rayleigh scattering, is similar to what makes sunsets red.
The Best Time to View the Supermoon
For those eager to catch a glimpse of tonight's blue supermoon, timing is key. The best time to view a supermoon is during moonrise, when the moon appears largest on the horizon. In the UK, tonight's moonrise began around 8:30 PM, with the northernmost point at John O'Groats experiencing moonrise at approximately 9:10 PM. If the skies are clear, the view promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
Upcoming Lunar Events
While tonight's blue supermoon is a rare event, it's not the only exciting lunar occurrence on the horizon. September's supermoon will coincide with a partial lunar eclipse, offering another stunning sight for skywatchers. Mark your calendars for September 18th, as this lunar eclipse will be visible across parts of the world, adding to the excitement of the upcoming supermoons.
A Rare Celestial Display
Tonight's rare blue supermoon is a celestial event that offers a unique opportunity to witness one of nature's most stunning spectacles. Whether you're an avid astronomer or just someone who enjoys looking up at the night sky, make sure to take a moment to appreciate this rare occurrence. With the potential for a reddish glow due to wildfire smoke, tonight's blue supermoon might surprise you in more ways than one.
Source: Sky News
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