Sky gazers and astronomy enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the celestial splendor of August, as the month promises a rare and captivating double lunar event. The skies will be adorned with not one, but two remarkable lunar phenomena – a full supermoon and a rare Blue moon, making this month a treat for stargazers around the world.
Kicking off the celestial extravaganza, the Sturgeon Moon will illuminate the night skies on August 1. This full supermoon will rise impressively close to Earth, less than 226,000 miles away, creating a breathtaking spectacle of an unusually bright and large moon. Dr. Jawed Iqbal, a distinguished Pakistani space scientist, shared that the moon will appear 14% larger and an astounding 30% brighter than a regular full moon.
As the Sturgeon Moon reaches its peak illumination at 2:32 pm ETD on Tuesday, avid sky watchers are encouraged to turn their gaze towards the southeast after sunset to witness the rising lunar marvel.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it exceptionally close to Earth. Specifically, it happens when a full moon appears within 90% of its closest approach to our planet, known as its perigee. This close proximity to Earth gives the moon an enchanting allure, appearing up to 8% larger and an impressive 16% brighter than a regular full moon.
August’s celestial wonders do not end with the Sturgeon Moon. On August 30, the month will conclude with a super Blue Moon – an event that occurs when two supermoons take place within the same month. The term “Blue Moon” may be familiar, describing a rare but recurring event. The super Blue Moon promises to be the most remarkable lunar display of 2023, as it will be exceptionally close to Earth, a mere 222,043 miles away, almost 17,000 miles closer than an average full moon.
Sky watchers in the United States can anticipate the peak intensity of the super Blue Moon close to sundown, offering an awe-inspiring view of this celestial rarity. Those who miss this extraordinary event will have to wait until August 2032 to witness the next Blue Moon.
The month of August offers an extraordinary opportunity for sky gazers to marvel at the celestial delights gracing the night skies. With a full supermoon on August 1 and a rare super Blue Moon on August 30, this month is destined to be etched into the memories of astronomy enthusiasts worldwide.
As the heavens put on this celestial spectacle, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonders that our universe holds. So, prepare your telescopes, look to the skies, and be enchanted by the celestial wonders of August – a month that promises to leave us in awe of the grandeur and mystery of the cosmos.
