When discussing the upcoming astronomical event, it’s important to clarify that the term “Blue Moon” has no relation to the moon’s color but rather denotes the occurrence of a second full moon within the same calendar month. In this case, the next full moon is set to rise on Wednesday, August 30, and is classified as a Blue Moon because it is the second full moon of August. This Blue Moon will also be considered a supermoon, which means it will appear slightly larger in the sky due to its proximity to Earth.

According to information from In the Sky, the Super Blue Moon will make its appearance just after sunset at 7:10 p.m. EDT (2310 GMT) from the eastern horizon. However, it’s important to note that this won’t be the moon’s peak brightness or size. The exact moment of a full moon occurs when it is positioned 180 degrees from the sun, directly opposite our star in the sky.

This year’s Blue Moon is expected to reach this point at 9:36 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, August 30 (or 0336 GMT on August 31), according to NASA. During this time, it will be located in the Aquarius constellation. The Blue Moon will subsequently set on Thursday, just before the sun rises, at approximately 6:46 a.m. EDT (1046 GMT).

To provide context, a Blue Moon is a term commonly used to describe the second full moon within a single calendar month. While full moons typically occur about 12.4 times a year, there are instances where a 12-month period contains 13 full moons. In such cases, one month will house two full moons, thus earning the label “Blue Moon.”

It’s worth mentioning that not all Blue Moons are supermoons, like the one occurring on August 30. A supermoon is characterized by a full moon coinciding with a point in its orbit when it is closer to Earth. This variation in distance is due to the moon’s elliptical orbit, which alternates between apogee (farthest from Earth) and perigee (closest to Earth). The difference in distance between Earth and the moon during these points ranges from approximately 220,000 miles (350,000 kilometers) to 253,000 miles (408,000 kilometers), representing a variance of around 14%.

Despite the difference in proximity, the visual disparity between a standard full moon and a supermoon is typically minimal. While a supermoon may appear slightly larger and brighter, this distinction is generally imperceptible to the casual observer and requires a seasoned skywatcher to discern.

Blue Moon and a Supermoon

Blue Moon:

Contrary to its name, a Blue Moon rarely appears blue in color. Instead, it is the term used to describe the occurrence of a second full moon within a calendar month. This happens approximately every 2.8 years when the lunar cycle (about 29.5 days) doesn’t quite align with our calendar months, resulting in two full moons in the same month.

Supermoon:

A Supermoon, on the other hand, refers to a full moon that appears larger and brighter in the night sky than an average full moon. This optical illusion occurs because the moon’s elliptical orbit brings it closer to Earth during its full phase, a point known as perigee. When a full moon coincides with a perigee, it’s called a Supermoon. This can make the moon appear up to 14% larger and significantly brighter than usual.

All in all

In our comprehensive guide, we delve into the celestial spectacle of the Super Blue Moon of 2023. This awe-inspiring event, known as a Blue Moon, is set to grace the night sky on August 30, 2023. But what makes it truly special is its classification as a Supermoon, promising an even more dazzling display.

We explore the science behind the Super Blue Moon, explaining how its occurrence is tied to its position in the lunar calendar and its proximity to Earth. While the term “Blue Moon” may not refer to its color, it signifies the second full moon in a calendar month, a rare phenomenon that occurs roughly once every 2.8 years.

Our guide offers insights into the best ways to witness this celestial wonder, whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or just curious about the night sky. We’ll also shed light on the subtle but mesmerizing differences that set a Supermoon apart from an ordinary full moon, making it an event well worth gazing upon.

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