Supermoon Blue Moon: When, where and how you can experience the spectacular spectacle of August 19th

Supermoons usually occur about 3-4 times a year and this August, the selenophile in us is jumping with excitement as we prepare to observe a relatively rare astronomical event that sees a Supermoon and a Blue Moon coincide – a combination that only happens every few decades. The full moon that occurs in August is traditionally called the ‘Sturgeon Moon’, so this Supermoon Blue Moon is also called the ‘Sturgeon Moon’ and we can’t keep calm as we wait for the spectacular celestial spectacle, as this will be the first of four consecutive Supermoons this year (the next ones are scheduled for September 18, October 17 and November 15).

When can you observe the Blue Moon supermoon:

The rare supermoon, known as the blue moon or “sturgeon moon,” will appear on August 19, 2024, and will reportedly shine about 30 percent brighter than on a normal lunar night. Although it will rise at 2:26 p.m. EDT on August 19, it will continue to appear nearly full on nights closer to that date, but its exact visibility time may vary depending on location and time zone.

Where to watch the Blue Moon supermoon:

• North America: 2:26 p.m. EDT on August 19, but according to NASA it will be full for about three days – from Sunday morning to early Wednesday morning
• Asia and Australia: On the morning of August 20, from Nepal Standard Time eastward across the rest of Asia and Australia to the International Date Line.
• India: Night of August 19 to early morning of August 20.
• Europe: From the evening of August 18th through the night of August 19th until the early hours of August 20th.
• Africa: From the evening of August 18th through the night of August 19th until the early hours of August 20th.

How to observe the Blue Moon supermoon:

• Check the date and time of the partial lunar eclipse in your location so you don’t miss it.
• Find a dark place and choose a location away from city lights and without light pollution for the best visibility.
• Dress warmly, especially if you plan to spend long periods outdoors due to the monsoon cold.
• Bring snacks and water with you to keep you hydrated and comfortable.
• Prepare early by getting to your observing site in good time and making sure you don’t miss the different phases of the moon.
• If you have a camera, remember to take photos to capture the moment.
• If you have access to them, use binoculars or a telescope as these can enhance your viewing experience.
• Don’t rely on weather forecasts, but you can check them to be prepared for the possibility that clouds will obscure your view.
• Join a local astronomy club that provides telescopes and expertise to observe the lunar spectacle.
• Use a camera with a longer exposure time to capture the details of the blue supermoon’s surface, but if you’re using a smartphone, adjust the exposure manually so the moon doesn’t appear too bright.
• If you are in a time zone where visibility is not clear or the weather is not cooperating, or you cannot go outside for work or other reasons, you can also watch the lunar event online as a live stream.