The Beauty of Supermoons: A Spectacular Celestial Phenomenon

A supermoon occurs when a full lunar phase syncs up with an especially close swing around Earth. This rare event provides us with a mesmerizing view of Earth’s constant companion in the night sky.

This week marks the first of four supermoons to grace our skies this year. Stargazers can witness the magic on Monday as the full moon appears slightly bigger and brighter than usual, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Noah Petro, project scientist for NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, encourages us to take advantage of this celestial event to appreciate the moon more regularly.

August’s supermoon is just the beginning of a series of lunar spectacles. September will bring a supermoon coinciding with a partial lunar eclipse, followed by the closest approach of the year in October and a grand finale in November.

What is a Supermoon?

A supermoon, more a popular term than a scientific one, occurs when a full lunar phase aligns with an especially close swing around Earth. This phenomenon happens only three or four times a year, given the moon’s shifting, oval-shaped orbit.

While a supermoon may not actually be bigger, it can certainly appear that way due to its close proximity to Earth. Though the difference in size is minimal, the enhanced brightness of a supermoon is a sight to behold.

When is the Next Full Moon?

According to NASA, the full moon will grace our skies on Monday afternoon, August 19, at 2:26 p.m. Eastern Time. However, the moon will appear full for three days, from Sunday morning through early Wednesday morning, allowing ample time to appreciate its beauty.

This full moon, known as a Supermoon Blue Moon, is also nicknamed the Sturgeon Moon, among other names from various traditions.

How Far Away Are Supermoons?

This year presents a quartet of supermoons, with each one at a different distance from Earth. The first supermoon will be 224,917 miles away, followed by a closer approach in September, where a partial lunar eclipse will accompany the celestial event. October’s supermoon will be the closest of the year, followed by November’s supermoon at a slightly greater distance.

What’s in it for Me?

While the subtle differences in size may be challenging to discern, the increased brightness of a supermoon, up to 30% brighter than average, is a sight to behold. With renewed interest in lunar exploration, including plans for astronauts to return to the moon, there has never been a more exciting time to gaze at our celestial neighbor. As we look up at the supermoon, let’s marvel at the wonders of the universe and the beauty of our closest companion.

As we witness these celestial marvels, let’s remember the beauty and mysteries that lie beyond our world, waiting to be explored and appreciated.