Next week you can marvel at a very special moon. Monday, August 19, 2024, The night sky shows a great moon rarity according to NASA. The upcoming August Full moon becomes a Supermoon, Blue Moon, And Sturgeon Moon all at once. (Yes, that’s a lot.) Also, this will be the very first supermoon of the year.
What is a supermoon?
A supermoon is when the full moon is on or near the nearest point in its orbit around the earth. This makes the full moon appear even larger in the sky. Supermoons can occur about 3-4 times a year. So, although it is a special astronomical event, it is not rare.
What is a Blue Moon?
There are Two types of blue moons:
- A seasonal blue moon
- A Blue Moon is either the third or fourth full moon in an astronomical season
- Seasonal blue moons are relatively rare and only occur every 2.5 to 3 years.
- A calendar blue moon
- The second full moon in a calendar month
- Calendar blue moons occur much more frequently
This supermoon on August 19, 2024 will be a seasonal blue moon, So it is a much rarer occurrence than the Blue Moons we normally see. Also, it will be the last seasonal Blue Moon until May 20, 2027.
What is a sturgeon moon?
The full moon in August is also called the Sturgeon Moon. There are many traditional Indian names for certain seasonal moon phases. According to Farmer’s Almanac, Sturgeon Moon is a traditional name for many tribes living around the Great Lakes. August was traditionally the time for fishing for Sturgeon, a large freshwater fish, Therefore, it made sense to name the August moon after this important source of food.
How can I see the Super Blue Moon around Seattle?
Fortunately, the moon is the easiest celestial body to observe. You don’t even need any special equipment. You can just look at it with the naked eye.
However, NASA’s Moon Viewing Guide states: “What you see on the Moon with your eyes alone depends on your eyesight.” Give your eyes enough time to adjust to the darkness and look carefully.“Of course, you can always Binoculars or even a telescope if you want to closely observe all the mountains and craters on the lunar surface.
Where can I see the Super Blue Moon in the Seattle area?
Of course, the best way to observe the Super Blue Moon is to find a good observation point with very little light pollution. In the city, it can be difficult to find one. But you can take a look at this very useful light pollution map to better know where to go if it’s too bright in your neighborhood.
While there are currently no official moon-gazing parties planned in Seattle, that shouldn’t stop you from hosting one yourself. You can simply head out to your backyard if it’s dark enough, or you can head to one of these great sky-gazing spots in the city.
Recommended locations for urban sky observation include:
Go camping near Seattle:
An even better idea would be a camping trip outside of the city to one of these incredible campgrounds or tent sites in the area. Washington State is incredibly lucky to have so many beautiful state and national parks right on our doorstep. Witnessing this very special and rare Super Blue Moon from one of these stunning parks would be a truly unforgettable experience.
