Skygazers are in for a spectacular event on August 19 as a rare supermoon, one of the largest and brightest of 2024, is set to light up the night sky.
A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth while being full, making it appear significantly larger and brighter.
What makes this event even more special is that it coincides with a Blue Moon, a phenomenon that happens only a few times every few decades. This particular supermoon is also known as a "Sturgeon Moon," a name traditionally given to the full moon in August.
Despite its name, a Blue Moon has nothing to do with the color of the moon.
According to Space.com, there are two types of Blue Moons: seasonal and monthly.
A seasonal Blue Moon is the third full moon in a season that has four full moons. This traditional definition applies to the Blue Moon occurring on August 19.
The other type, a monthly Blue Moon, is the second full moon within a single calendar month. This interpretation arose from a misreading of the original definition but is now widely accepted as an alternate meaning.
Retired NASA Program Executive Gordon Johnston explained, "Although it will not look blue, as the third full Moon in a season with four full Moons, this will be a Blue Moon. The first recorded use of 'Blue Moon' in English dates back to 1528." He added that the term might have originated from an old English phrase meaning "betrayer Moon," which caused errors in setting dates for Lent and Easter, or from rare events when atmospheric dust makes the moon appear blue. Since the 1940s, the term "Blue Moon" has also been used to describe the second full moon in a month with two full moons.
This supermoon will be visible on August 19 and will appear full in the sky for three days. It is expected to reach its peak visibility at 11:56 pm IST on Monday.
For the best view, choose a location with minimal air pollution and a clear view of the horizon, as recommended by the BBC. The supermoon will be visible shortly after it rises in the southeast and eastern parts of the sky. It's crucial to select a spot free from city lights for the best experience.
While the supermoon can be seen with the naked eye, using a telescope or binoculars can enhance the view, allowing you to see more details on the moon's surface. It’s also advisable to check the local weather forecast to ensure that clouds won’t obstruct your view.
Experts suggest allowing your eyes time to adjust to the darkness for optimal viewing. Your ability to see will gradually improve, with color vision adjusting in about 10 minutes and black-and-white vision taking up to an hour or longer. To maintain night vision, avoid exposure to bright lights.
In 2024, three more supermoons are expected.
The Hunter’s Moon on October 17 will be the closest full moon of the year, while the Harvest Moon on September 17 will also be a significant event. The Harvest Moon, one of the most famous full moons of the year, will be partially eclipsed by Earth as it passes into its shadow. The final supermoon of the year will occur on November 15.