The Supermoon Blue Moon, a rare celestial event, graced the skies on August 19, 2024, captivating stargazers worldwide. This full moon, the third in a season with four, was a true spectacle, showcasing a celestial body at its most radiant. The term ‘supermoon’ refers to a full moon that appears larger and brighter than usual because it occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit.
The Supermoon Blue Moon’s appearance sparked a global wave of photography, with people capturing its majesty over iconic landmarks and serene landscapes. From the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City to the Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the moon’s ethereal glow illuminated some of the world’s most breathtaking locations.
One striking image captured in Copenhagen, Denmark, shows an airplane soaring past the moon, creating a poignant contrast between human ingenuity and the celestial wonder. In London, the moon rose over the Canary Wharf business district, offering a breathtaking view of urban development against the backdrop of cosmic grandeur.
In China, the Supermoon Blue Moon shone above Huiju Temple, a Buddhist temple perched on the slopes of Mount Jiuhua, showcasing a harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Across the globe, photographers captured the moon’s brilliance. In Charlotte, North Carolina, Kevin McCarthy captured a detailed view of the moon just before clouds rolled in. In Arlington, Virginia, J. David Ake captured the moon shining brightly above the U.S. Air Force Memorial spires. And in Chengdu, China, Yang Qitian captured a breathtaking image of the moon rising over the Longquan Mountain Observation Deck.
The Supermoon Blue Moon’s presence extended beyond land. In Sydney, Australia, Robbie Pesiwarissa captured the moon setting over Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House at dawn. And in Istanbul, Turkey, Ahmet Okatali captured the moon rising behind the Suleymaniye Mosque, offering a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of the city.
The moon’s captivating presence was not just confined to the skies above. Photographer Henrique Casin captured a colorful scene of the moon shining next to the Cristo Rei statue in Lisbon, Portugal, showcasing the moon’s ability to inspire awe and wonder in diverse landscapes.
For those who missed the Supermoon Blue Moon, there’s no need to despair. August’s full moon was followed by three more supermoons on Sept. 17, Oct. 17 and Nov. 15. These celestial events offer opportunities to reconnect with the wonders of the universe and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
As we look up at the night sky, we are reminded of the vastness of space and our place within it. The Supermoon Blue Moon serves as a reminder of the enduring beauty of the cosmos, a reminder that inspires wonder and a sense of connection to something far greater than ourselves.
