Did you miss the Supermoon on August 1st? No worries! There’s still another chance to witness this rare celestial event. On August 30, the second Supermoon of the month, known as the Blue Moon, will be gracing the night sky. But let’s talk about the one you might have missed – the Sturgeon Moon.
What is a Supermoon and Sturgeon Moon?
A Supermoon occurs when the Moon is orbiting closest to the Earth, coinciding with a Full Moon. During this extraordinary event, the Moon appears slightly brighter and larger than a regular full moon. The term “Supermoon” was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 and refers to either a new or full Moon that occurs when the Moon is within 90 percent of perigee, its closest approach to Earth.
The Supermoon on August 1st was a Sturgeon Moon, so named by Native American tribes who believed this was the best time to catch giant sturgeons from the Great Lakes. It’s also known by other names, including Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon, Flying-Up Moon, Harvest Moon, Black Cherries Moon, and Mountain Shadow Moon.
When and How to Watch the Rare Sturgeon Moon?
If you missed the Sturgeon Moon on August 1st, don’t worry; you still have a chance to catch the Blue Moon on August 30th. To watch the Supermoon or Sturgeon Moon, you’ll need favorable weather conditions with clear skies and an unrestricted view of the night sky. If the weather cooperates, you can enjoy the breathtaking sight of the Moon shining brightly.
For those in India, the Supermoon on August 30th will reach its peak at 12:02 am IST. However, you can start observing it from 2:32 pm EDT on August 1st (August 2nd, 12:01 am IST). Remember to use binoculars or telescopes if you have them, as they can enhance your viewing experience. So, mark your calendars for August 30th and get ready to witness the magnificent Blue Moon, the second Supermoon of the month. Remember to check the weather and find a location with an unobstructed view of the sky to make the most of this celestial spectacle. Happy skygazing!