2024-08-17 16:47:12
A rare celestial spectacle will occur Monday evening: a full moon that can be called both a “super moon” and a “blue moon” will be visible in the sky.
• Also read: [PODCAST] Does the Moon really influence people?
Dubbed the “blue super moon,” this rare combination occurs when the different cycles of blue moons and super moons align in the calendar, said Noah Petro of NASA, a scientist with the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter project, to the media USA Today.
Here’s why Monday’s full moon is so special.
What is a super moon?
When the Moon’s orbit brings it closer to Earth than usual, this cosmic combination is called a “super moon.” This happens when the Moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth at the very moment the Moon is full. The term was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979.
“Since the Moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle, the Moon is sometimes closer to Earth than at other times during its orbit,” NASA explains.
When the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth, full moons appear larger and brighter than at other times.
What is a blue moon?
There are two types of blue moons: seasonal and monthly. On Monday, you will be able to see the seasonal type.
A seasonal blue moon occurs when there are four full moons in a single season (in this case, summer). When this happens, the third of the four is considered a blue moon.
The monthly blue moon refers to the second full moon in a single month.
In both cases, blue moons are fairly rare phenomena due to the cycle of a full moon.
The lunar cycle lasts 29.5 days. However, as noted by Mike Reed, an astrophysics professor at Missouri State University, months can have 28, 29, 30, or 31 days.
The two cycles create offsets, resulting in one additional moon during a season or a month.
It’s worth noting: it is unlikely that Monday’s full moon will appear blue. Blue moons in photos are typically created using special blue camera filters or photo editing applications.
When will the phenomenon occur again?
According to NASA, the next blue super moon will be visible in January 2037.
So it will be several years before we see this celestial spectacle in the sky again.
A Celestial Event: The Future of Super Blue Moons
The rare celestial phenomenon of a “super blue moon” captivates skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. Astrologers and scientists predict that as we look to the future, occurrences of these extraordinary lunar events may inspire a resurgence in public interest in astronomy and nature.
Growing Popularity of Lunar Events
With the increasing accessibility of astronomy through technology, we can expect more families and individuals to engage with these phenomena. Apps and online platforms that track lunar events are becoming essential tools for budding astronomers. Future celestial events like super blue moons can integrate augmented reality features, allowing spectators to visualize the moon’s cycle and position in real time.
Astrophotography and Social Media Influence
The intersection of social media and astrophotography is another trend to watch. With high-quality cameras on smartphones, capturing and sharing images of astronomical events has never been easier. As events like the super blue moon draw closer, social media platforms will likely see a surge in engagement, with users sharing their personal experiences and stunning imagery. This not only fosters a community of astronomy lovers but also inspires others to venture outdoors and experience the beauty of the cosmos firsthand.
Environmental Awareness and Celestial Events
Moreover, as climate awareness continues to rise, lunar events will serve as poignant reminders of our planet’s health and the natural cycles that govern it. Events perceived as rare or beautiful, like the super blue moon, can inspire greater advocacy for environmental protection, as people come together to enjoy and learn more about our celestial bodies. Educational programs might emerge, promoting the significance of protecting the night sky from light pollution, further enhancing the viewing experience for generations to come.
Scientific Exploration and Discovery
As space exploration continues to advance, lunar events may also provide opportunities for scientific discovery. Experiments and studies linked to these phenomena could potentially yield insights into lunar cycles and their effects on Earth. Continued developments in lunar reconnaissance and observation will likely contribute to a better understanding of our natural satellite, enhancing both academic research and popular interest in space travel.
In summary, the spectacle of super blue moons is poised to inspire not just awe and wonder, but also a movement towards education, conservation, and exploration as we look to the heavens.