The much-anticipated Supermoon Blue Moon is set to grace the night sky on Monday, August 19th, reaching its peak fullness at 2:26 p.m. EDT (1826 GMT). While many might think this is a once-in-a-decade event, the truth is a bit more nuanced. The term ‘Blue Moon’ carries two distinct meanings, making these celestial occurrences less rare than perceived.
The traditional definition of a ‘Blue Moon’ refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons, known as a seasonal Blue Moon. However, a second definition emerged, the monthly Blue Moon, which designates the second full moon in a single calendar month. This definition, though born from a misunderstanding, is now widely accepted as an alternative.
A ‘Supermoon’ is a more frequent occurrence, simply signifying a full moon when the moon is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. We’re in for a treat this year, as we’ll experience four supermoons in a row: August 19th, September 17th, October 17th, and November 15th. The closest supermoon of 2024 will occur on October 17th at 7:26 a.m. EDT (11:26 a.m. GMT).
Therefore, according to the monthly Blue Moon definition, the next Supermoon Blue Moon will indeed occur on January 31, 2037, at 10:03 a.m. EST (1403 GMT). However, under the seasonal Blue Moon definition, the next Supermoon Blue Moon will occur on August 19, 2024, at 2:26 p.m. EDT (1826 GMT). After this, we won’t witness another Supermoon Blue Moon (seasonally) until August 20, 2032.
Mark your calendars! This Monday’s full moon marks a unique opportunity to witness a celestial spectacle. While the moon will appear full on the nights before and after August 19th, make an effort to gaze up and appreciate its brilliance. After all, we’ll have to wait at least eight years for the next Supermoon Blue Moon.
