On the night of August 19, 2024, skywatchers were treated to a rare celestial event: the Super Blue Moon, also known as the ‘Sturgeon Moon.’ This remarkable occurrence combined two phenomena that captivate astronomers and enthusiasts alike—a supermoon and a blue moon.
What Makes a Supermoon?
A supermoon happens when the full moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as the perigee. This proximity makes the moon appear about 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is at its farthest point, or apogee. The effect is a dazzling display, where the moon dominates the night sky with an unusually large and luminous presence.
The full moon rises around sunset and sets around sunrise, offering an extended viewing period. This year’s Sturgeon Moon looked “full” not just on August 19, but also on the nights immediately before and after, giving stargazers multiple opportunities to witness its brilliance.
Understanding the Blue Moon
The term “blue moon” is a bit misleading—while it suggests a moon with a bluish hue, it actually refers to the occurrence of two full moons within a single calendar month. This phenomenon happens approximately every two to three years. The alternative definition of a blue moon is the third full moon in a season that has four full moons, which is rarer still.
The blue moon on August 19 was particularly special because it marked the first of four supermoons in 2024. The remaining supermoons are scheduled to light up the sky on September 18, October 17, and November 15.
Will the Moon Actually Look Blue?
Despite the name, a blue moon doesn’t typically appear blue. The moon might take on a bluish tint only under specific atmospheric conditions, such as when there is smoke or dust in the air. Usually, the moon appears yellow or orange when it is near the horizon, due to the scattering of light in the Earth’s atmosphere.
How Rare Are Super Blue Moons?
Super blue moons are a rare spectacle, occurring roughly every 10 to 20 years. While about 25% of all full moons are supermoons, only about 3% are blue moons, making the combination of the two a truly unique event. This rarity adds to the excitement and wonder of experiencing such an astronomical occurrence.
Why the Moon Appears Bigger or Smaller
The supermoon is undeniably larger and brighter, but not everyone may notice the difference. The apparent size of the moon can be influenced by various factors, including the observer’s location, atmospheric conditions, and a psychological effect known as the “moon illusion.” This illusion makes the moon appear larger when it is near the horizon compared to when it is higher in the sky.
The Super Blue Moon of August 19, 2024, was a mesmerizing event that captured the imagination of people around the world. As we look forward to the next supermoon in September, this rare phenomenon reminds us of the beauty and wonder of the universe that is always above us, waiting to be explored.