This week an extraordinary celestial event known as the “Blue Moon” will grace the skies across the globe in a rare occurrence that will not repeat until 2023.
The Moon-Image Source: Sky News
According to the British newspaper, Daily Mail, the third giant moon of the year will appear on August 30 at precisely 9:36 pm Eastern Daylight Time in the United States, or around 02:35 Greenwich Mean Time (in the early hours of August 31).
Contrary to its name, the Blue Moon does not possess a different color; it maintains its usual gray hue. However, it may appear up to 14% larger and shine 30% brighter than usual.
Typically, a Blue Moon takes place every two to three years. Its previous appearance was in August 2021, and in rare instances, it can occur twice in a single year, like in 2018.
Experts recommend turning off lights at home to enhance visibility, as this largely depends on weather conditions and pollution.
Four Giant Moons in 2023:
So far, two giant moons have already appeared, and two more are expected in the coming days:
- July 3: Buck Moon
- August 1: Sturgeon Moon
- August 30: Blue Moon
- September 29: Harvest Moon
What is a Giant Moon?
A Giant Moon is a rare and awe-inspiring lunar phenomenon that can only be witnessed a few times a year. When it occurs, the sky fills with a bright and sizable moon, captivating anyone who gazes upon it.
A Giant Moon is a combination of two distinct astronomical effects, particularly when a new or full moon coincides with the “lunar perigee,” which is the moon’s closest point to Earth in its monthly orbit.
To be officially defined as a Giant Moon, it must approach 90% of its closest distance to Earth, approximately 224,865 miles, and be a full moon.
