Get ready to be mesmerized this August, as the month brings forth a celestial extravaganza with not one, but two captivating supermoons. This extraordinary astronomical occurrence is set to grace our skies, and its next appearance is not expected until January 2037. Brace yourself for an astronomical treat as August unfolds with a celestial double-header: the sturgeon supermoon on August 1st and the captivating super blue moon on August 30th.
Mark your calendars for the sturgeon supermoon, reaching its peak illumination precisely at 2:32 p.m. ET on Tuesday, August 1st. Those fortunate enough to observe it will be treated to an awe-inspiring spectacle. As the moon gracefully descends, it will set at 5:11 a.m. ET on Wednesday, August 3rd.
Turning our gaze to August 30th, the super blue moon will commence its ascent at 7:10 p.m. ET, reaching its zenith at 9:36 p.m. ET. The term “blue” is a nod to its rarity as the second full moon within a single calendar month. While most months host one full moon with a 29-day interval, occasional months accommodate a second full moon due to variations in month lengths.
A supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, a phenomenon known as the perigee. This alignment creates a stunning illusion of magnificence and brightness, causing the moon to appear larger and more radiant in the night sky. For dedicated astronomy enthusiasts and passionate stargazers, these supermoons offer a unique chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of our cosmic companion, the moon, in its full glory.
