The first of 2024’s four consecutive supermoons will grace the skies, offering a rare and stunning view for astronomy enthusiasts.
Astronomy aficionados, mark your calendars! The rare supermoon blue moon of August, the first of 2024’s four consecutive supermoons, will illuminate the night sky from Sunday through Wednesday. This celestial event promises a mesmerizing display for those who gaze upwards.
Peak illumination: When to look up
According to NASA, the full moon will reach its peak illumination on Monday at precisely 2:26 p.m. EDT. However, the supermoon will appear full for three days, starting Sunday morning and lasting until early Wednesday morning. The Old Farmer’s Almanac provides specific moonrise times for various ZIP codes across the United States, making it easier for stargazers to catch a glimpse.
Observing the supermoon: Tools and timings
While the full moon peaks on Monday at 2:26 p.m. EDT, it will first appear full on Sunday morning. On that day, around 98% of the moon’s nearside will be illuminated by the sun. By Monday, 100% of the moon’s nearside will be illuminated, and about 99% will be illuminated by Tuesday, according to NASA.
The supermoon can be observed with the naked eye, binoculars, or a telescope, making it accessible to all levels of astronomy enthusiasts.
Understanding supermoons
Supermoons occur when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth while also being full. The moon’s distance from Earth fluctuates between approximately 221,457 miles and 252,712 miles. During August’s supermoon peak, the moon will be about 225,288 miles from Earth. It will be even closer in September, at roughly 222,005 miles, and in October, around 222,095 miles. November’s supermoon will be at a distance of about 224,385 miles from Earth.
Supermoons appear larger than the average full moon, akin to the size difference between a quarter and a nickel, and are about 16% brighter, according to NASA.
Upcoming supermoons in 2024
August’s supermoon is just the beginning. The next supermoon will occur in September, peaking on Tuesday, Sept. 17, known as the Harvest Moon. October’s full moon, the Hunter’s Moon, will peak on Thursday, Oct. 17. The final supermoon of the year, November’s Beaver Moon, will peak on Friday, Nov. 15. NASA notes that the full moons in September and October will be virtually tied for the closest full moons of the year.
While August’s full moon is also a blue moon, don’t expect to see hues of cerulean, cobalt, or navy. A blue moon refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons or the second full moon in a month with two full moons, not to its color.
Prepare your telescopes and binoculars for this extraordinary celestial event and enjoy the rare beauty of August’s supermoon blue moon.