Tonight, the night sky will be graced by a rare celestial spectacle: a blue supermoon. This captivating event occurs when two lunar phenomena align: a full moon and a supermoon.
A supermoon happens when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. A blue moon, on the other hand, refers to the second full moon in a single calendar month. While the name suggests a blue hue, it’s simply a testament to the rarity of this event, hence the expression “once in a blue moon.”
The combination of these two lunar events creates a truly special spectacle for skywatchers. The best time to witness this celestial wonder is during moonrise, the equivalent of sunrise for the moon. Depending on your location, moonrise will occur at different times.
If the skies are clear, the blue supermoon will be visible across the entire UK. To maximize your viewing experience, find a location with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon.
Tonight’s blue supermoon is the first of four consecutive supermoons that will grace the sky over the next four months. These subsequent supermoons will occur on:
While tonight’s blue supermoon is a sight to behold, September’s supermoon promises an even more extraordinary spectacle with the addition of a partial lunar eclipse. This event will undoubtedly captivate astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
Adding another dimension to tonight’s celestial event, the wildfires currently raging across the US could add a unique twist. The smoke and dust particles suspended in the atmosphere might give the moon a reddish hue, creating a rare “blood moon” effect.
Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply curious about the wonders of the universe, step outside tonight and marvel at this extraordinary astronomical event. Witness the celestial dance of the blue supermoon, a rare and breathtaking sight that reminds us of the vastness and beauty of our universe.
