The Next Spectacular Super Blue Moon: A 9-Year Wait for Sky Gazers

Space: If you miss August’s Super Blue Moon, you’ll have to wait 9 years for your next chance

A Rare Celestial Event

The month of August 2023 offers a celestial treat for skygazers as it features not only one, but two supermoons. The first supermoon, known as the sturgeon supermoon, will be visible on Tuesday, while the second, a rare blue supermoon, will grace the night sky at the end of the month. These events are not to be missed, as the next blue supermoon is not expected until 2032.

Understanding Supermoons

A supermoon, scientifically known as a perigean full moon, occurs when the moon is full during its closest point in orbit around Earth. This proximity to our planet gives the moon an extra luminosity, making it appear up to 8% larger and 16% brighter than a typical full moon. The moon’s orbit varies between 226,000 and 251,000 miles from Earth, with the closest approaches each year qualifying as supermoons. The previous supermoon occurred on July 3, and the upcoming sturgeon supermoon on Tuesday will be the next in line.

The Sturgeon Supermoon: An Ancient Tradition and Natural Wonder

Named after Native American tribes who noticed the abundance of giant sturgeons in the Great Lakes during this time of the summer, the sturgeon supermoon holds a special place in folklore and natural history. The peak illumination of the sturgeon supermoon is expected at 2:32 p.m. ET. To witness this spectacle, one should look towards the southeast after sunset. The sturgeon is an ancient fish species that can live up to 150 years and grows to an impressive size of up to 20 feet and nearly 2,000 pounds. Although the majority of sturgeons in the Great Lakes measure about 6 feet in length and weigh approximately 200 pounds, their presence adds to the awe-inspiring nature of this event.

The Blue Supermoon: A Rare Occurrence

While the term “supermoon” references the moon’s orbit in relation to Earth, a blue moon has to do with the frequency of full moons occurring in a single calendar month. It happens when there is a second full moon in a month or when the third of four full moons falls into an astrological season. The term “once in a blue moon” is used to describe a rare but recurring event. However, blue moons themselves are not as rare, appearing approximately every two and a half years. A blue supermoon, on the other hand, is a much rarer phenomenon. The last blue supermoon took place in December 2009, and the next one is not expected until August 2032. The blue supermoon of August 2023 will reach its peak at 9:36 p.m. ET on August 30. Observation enthusiasts can use the Farmer’s Almanac’s moonrise calculator to determine the visibility of the blue supermoon in their respective areas.

The Biggest and Brightest Supermoon of 2023

The end of August will showcase an exceptional supermoon, as it will be the closest to Earth in its orbit, measuring approximately 222,043 miles. This closeness makes it the biggest and brightest supermoon of the year. The average distance between the Earth and the moon is about 238,855 miles, so this particular event offers an opportunity to witness the moon’s splendor up close.

Advice for Skygazers

For individuals interested in catching a glimpse of these spectacular lunar phenomena, it is recommended to find a clear area with minimal light pollution. Viewing the moonrise towards the southeast after sunset will provide an ideal vantage point for observing the sturgeon supermoon. As for the blue supermoon, utilizing moonrise calculators will assist in determining the most suitable viewing times in different regions.

Editorial: The Beauty and Significance of Celestial Events

The occurrence of supermoons and other celestial events offers a humbling reminder of the vastness and grandeur of our universe. Whether it be the scientific explanation behind these events or the folklore surrounding them, they captivate the imagination and inspire awe. These phenomena provide an opportunity for people to connect with nature, as they remind us of our place in the cosmos and the wonders that exist beyond our atmosphere. As we gaze at the supermoon this August, let us take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our celestial neighbors and the mysteries they still hold.

Keywords: Moon-superbluemoon, skygazers, celestial events, astronomy, lunar cycle, rare phenomenon, stargazing, lunar eclipse, moon phases, astronomical events