What's happened
A blue supermoon graced the skies on August 19, 2024, marking a rare astronomical event. This phenomenon occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth, appearing larger and brighter. The blue supermoon is the first of four consecutive supermoons this year, with the next one set for September 18.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of the Event
- Astronomical Rarity: The blue supermoon is a rare event, with only 3% of full moons classified as blue moons.
- Visibility: It appears up to 30% brighter and 14% larger than a typical full moon, making it a spectacular sight for stargazers.
Future Implications
- Upcoming Supermoons: This blue supermoon is the first of four consecutive supermoons, with the next on September 18, which will coincide with a partial lunar eclipse.
- Cultural Impact: Events like this often inspire public interest in astronomy and can lead to increased attendance at observatories and public viewing events.
Environmental Considerations
- Wildfire Effects: Smoke from North American wildfires may affect visibility, potentially giving the moon a reddish hue, which adds to the spectacle but also highlights environmental issues.
What the papers say
The Independent reported that the blue supermoon is a significant event, noting that it is the first of four consecutive supermoons this year. According to BBC News, the moon appeared red due to wildfire smoke, illustrating how environmental factors can influence astronomical observations. Sky News emphasized the rarity of the blue supermoon, explaining that it occurs when two full moons happen in a month or when there are four full moons in a season. The New York Times highlighted the cultural significance of such events, suggesting they inspire public interest in astronomy.
How we got here
The blue supermoon is a unique occurrence that combines two phenomena: a supermoon, which happens when the moon is closest to Earth, and a blue moon, defined as the third full moon in a season of four. This event is infrequent, occurring every two to three years.
Go deeper
- What causes a blue moon?
- How often do supermoons occur?
- What is the significance of the supermoon?
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