August's Rare Blue Supermoon: A Guide to Witnessing This Celestial Spectacle
What is a Blue Moon?
A Blue Moon is a rare astronomical event that occurs when a second full moon appears in the same calendar month. This happens because the Moon's phases align with the days of the month in a specific way. The term "Blue Moon" is a misnomer, as the Moon does not actually appear blue. Instead, it will have its regular, silvery appearance.
What is a Supermoon?
A Supermoon occurs when the Moon's closest point to Earth, known as perigee, coincides with a full moon. During a Supermoon, the Moon appears larger and brighter than normal. This is because it is closer to Earth, which means that its light reflects more directly toward us.
When to See the Blue Supermoon
The Blue Supermoon will peak on Monday, August 31, 2023. The exact time of the peak will vary depending on your location. According to NASA, the peak will occur at 2:26 PM EDT. However, the Moon will still appear full and large for several days before and after the peak.
How to See the Blue Supermoon
The best way to see the Blue Supermoon is to find a location with open skies and minimal light pollution. If possible, try to get away from the bright lights of cities or towns. Once you find a good spot, simply look up at the sky and enjoy the view.
What to Expect
The Blue Supermoon will appear larger and brighter than normal due to its proximity to Earth. It will also have a slightly reddish-orange tint. This is because the Moon's light has to pass through more of Earth's atmosphere to reach us, which scatters blue light more than other colors.
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