The blue supermoon will be visible on August 19: Know when, where and how to see this spectacular sight | Mint

“Supermoon Blue Moon” is a rare and amazing astronomical phenomenon that is a combination of two different phenomena – Supermoon and Blue Moon.

This rare astronomical event is going to happen in August this year. The full moon in August is traditionally known as the ‘Sturgeon Moon’, and hence, this Supermoon Blue Moon is also called the ‘Sturgeon Moon’.

Excitement is high for this spectacular astronomical event as it is the first of four consecutive supermoons this year, with the next ones expected on September 18, October 17 and November 15.

What is a Supermoon Blue Moon?

A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit at the time of a full moon, known as perigee. During a supermoon, the moon appears larger and brighter in the sky than usual.

Meanwhile, a blue moon means a second full moon in the same calendar month. Despite the name, a blue moon doesn’t look blue; it’s just an extra full moon that occurs under these specific conditions.

When these two events align, you get a supermoon blue moon.

This means that there will be a full moon that is unusually large and bright (a supermoon) and a second full moon in the same calendar month (a blue moon).

When to see the Supermoon Blue Moon?

The rare supermoon Blue Moon, also known as the ‘Sturgeon Moon’, will appear on August 19 and is expected to shine 30% brighter than a normal moonlit night.

Although it’s scheduled to rise on August 19 at 2:26 a.m. EDT, it will appear nearly full on the nights leading up to this date. However, the exact viewing time will vary depending on your location and time zone.

Where to see Supermoon Blue Moon?

North AmericaThis will occur on Aug. 19 at 2:26 a.m. Eastern Time, and according to NASA, it’s expected to be fully visible for about three days, from Sunday morning until Wednesday morning.

Asia and Australia: On the morning of August 20, Nepal Standard Time, moving eastward across Asia and Australia to the International Date Line.

IndiaFrom the night of 19th August to the morning of 20th August.

EuropeFrom the evening of 18th August to the night of 19th August and till the morning of 20th August.

AfricaFrom the evening of 18th August to the night of 19th August and till the morning of 20th August.

How to see the Supermoon Blue Moon?

check timeFind the date, time, moonrise and moonset for your area.

Choose a locationFind a spot with a clear view of the horizon, away from city lights.

prepareUse binoculars to get a closer look, and bring a camera and tripod if you want to take photos.

Check the weatherEnsure clear skies for best visibility.

enjoyRelax, observe and appreciate this rare occurrence with friends or family.