As August draws to a close, skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts are in for a celestial treat with the upcoming blue supermoon set to grace the night sky on Wednesday, August 30th. This astronomical event promises to captivate viewers as it shines as the brightest and largest moon of the year, casting an awe-inspiring glow just after sunset in the eastern horizon.
Distinguished by its remarkable combination of being a full moon and a blue moon, this lunar marvel marks the third full moon of a season featuring four full moons, as confirmed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Earlier this month, the full sturgeon moon made its appearance on August 1, showering the world with a breathtaking display of astrophotography from across the globe. This forthcoming blue moon on August 30th will be the second full moon of the month.
Adding to the intrigue, this blue moon qualifies as a supermoon, which occurs when the moon reaches its perigee phase—its closest proximity to Earth. During this phase, the moon appears slightly larger in the sky, offering an enchanting sight to those gazing upwards. While the size difference is only around 7%, it is a subtle detail that makes this celestial event all the more captivating. The moon’s enhanced size will be most noticeable during the moonrise, yet may not be readily apparent to the unaided eye.
This particular blue moon holds a touch of rarity, as it won’t grace the night sky for the next few years. There are two distinct categories of blue moons, as elucidated by LiveScience. The “calendar blue moon” is the first variety, occurring when two full moons grace the same calendar month. While these occurrences are infrequent, they take place approximately every two to three years due to the moon’s 29.5-day cycle. The second classification, a “seasonal blue moon,” transpires when there are 13 full moons in a single year, in contrast to the usual 12. The blue moon scheduled for Wednesday is classified under the former category due to the presence of a full moon at the beginning of the month.
Adding an extra touch of splendor to the spectacle, the August 2023 blue moon will share the celestial stage with Saturn, the stunning ringed gas giant. Saturn, just past opposition, will adorn the skies in the Aquarius constellation, positioned above and to the right of the resplendent moon. This pairing of two celestial wonders promises an unforgettable sight for those who cast their eyes skyward.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the extraordinary blue supermoon of August 2023, a rare convergence of lunar phenomena that promises to leave stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts in awe. On the evening of Wednesday, August 30th, prepare to be mesmerized as the night sky comes alive with the brilliance of the brightest moon of the year, joined by the majestic presence of Saturn.
