The first supermoon of the year is set to light up the skies as the biggest and brightest full moon of 2024. This supermoon also coincides with a blue moon, making it a rare lunar event that typically occurs once a decade. The full moon is expected to rise Monday afternoon and will appear larger and brighter than previous full moons. The Old Farmer’s Almanac is tracking this event and predicts that the super blue moon will be visible until Wednesday morning. The next super blue moon is not expected to occur until 2037, making this a unique opportunity to witness this celestial phenomenon. This supermoon marks the first of four consecutive supermoons this year, with the next ones expected in September, October, and November.
The term “blue moon” has two definitions, with Monday’s full moon fitting the description of a seasonal blue moon. This type of blue moon is the third of four full moons in a single season, with the usual number of full moons in one season being three. The other definition of a blue moon is the second of two full moons occurring within a calendar month. The overlap of these two celestial events on Monday makes it a super blue moon, although the moon itself will not appear blue. NASA explains that the super blue moon will look brighter than usual and appear up to 14% larger than when it is farthest from Earth, similar to the size difference between a quarter and a nickel.
The last super blue moon occurred in August 2023, making it a rare event that does not happen frequently. NASA notes that the time between super blue moons is irregular, with an average of 10 years between occurrences. However, this event can sometimes happen as often as every 20 years. The next super blue moon is predicted to happen in January 2037, reinforcing the unique opportunity to witness this phenomenon. Despite the name suggesting that the moon will appear blue, it will not actually have a blue hue. Instead, it will be brighter and larger than usual, providing skywatchers with a stunning sight in the night sky.
The super blue moon event is highly anticipated by astronomers and skywatchers alike, offering a rare opportunity to witness a celestial event that combines both a supermoon and a blue moon. The supermoon phenomenon occurs when a full moon is at or near its closest point to the Earth, resulting in a larger and brighter appearance in the night sky. This unique event on Monday marks the first of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, promising more opportunities to observe these breathtaking lunar displays. While the super blue moon will not actually appear blue, its enhanced brightness and size will make it a striking sight for those who gaze up at the night sky.
The upcoming super blue moon event has garnered attention from organizations such as NASA and The Old Farmer’s Almanac, which are tracking and predicting the timing and visibility of this rare lunar event. Skywatchers are advised to look out for the super blue moon from Monday afternoon until Wednesday morning, as it will be at its fullest and most visible during this time. The next opportunity to witness a super blue moon after this event will not occur until 2037, underscoring the rarity and significance of this celestial occurrence. Astronomers and space enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the super blue moon, promising a dazzling sight in the night sky that is not to be missed.
In conclusion, the upcoming super blue moon event is a unique and rare celestial phenomenon that combines both a supermoon and a blue moon. The supermoon will appear larger and brighter than usual, offering skywatchers a stunning sight in the night sky. This event, the first of four consecutive supermoons in 2024, is highly anticipated by astronomers and space enthusiasts alike. While the moon itself will not actually appear blue, its increased brightness and size will make it a memorable experience for those who observe it. Organizations such as NASA and The Old Farmer’s Almanac are tracking the event and providing information on when and where it can be seen. The next opportunity to witness a super blue moon will not occur until 2037, making this event a special and rare occurrence that is worth looking out for.
