What is the significance of having two supermoons occurring in August?
What is a Supermoon?
A supermoon is a term used to describe the full moon that occurs when the moon is at its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. As a result, the moon appears larger and brighter in the sky.
Supermoons in August
August is an exciting month for sky watchers as it hosts not one, but two supermoons!
The First Supermoon: August 3, 2020
The first supermoon of August will occur on August 3, 2020. It will be the closest and brightest supermoon of the year, making it a must-watch for astronomy enthusiasts. Look up at the night sky on this date to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the moon at its peak.
The Blue Moon: August 31, 2020
In a rare occurrence, August will also host a Blue Moon, which is the term given to the second full moon within a calendar month. It is relatively uncommon to have two full moons in a month, hence the saying “once in a Blue Moon.” As the saying goes, don’t miss this phenomenon on August 31, 2020!
What to Know
If you want to observe these celestial events, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Find a Dark Spot
Try to find a location away from city lights to ensure the best visibility. The darker the sky, the more vibrant the moon will appear.
Look East
When the moon rises, it generally appears larger due to an optical illusion caused by objects on the horizon. So, find a spot where the moon will be visible on the eastern horizon for the best viewing experience.
Bring Binoculars or a Telescope
While both supermoons and blue moons can be seen with the naked eye, if you have binoculars or a telescope, you’ll be able to witness the intricate details of the lunar surface that are otherwise hidden.
Don’t Worry About Moon Phases
Regardless of what phase the moon is in, as long as it’s a full moon, you’ll have the chance to witness the supermoon in all its glory.
So mark your calendars and get ready to be mesmerized by the celestial wonders that await in the August sky. With two supermoons, including a blue moon, it’s a month that astronomy enthusiasts won’t want to miss!