Stargazing enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest are in for a treat this August. Known as one of the best months for observing the night sky, August will offer not one, but two full supermoons – a celestial event that occurs when the moon is at its closest distance to Earth.
A supermoon is a term used to describe a full moon that appears larger and brighter than usual due to its close proximity to our planet. Typically, a supermoon occurs when the moon is within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. This August, stargazers will have the opportunity to witness this extraordinary phenomenon on two separate occasions.
The first supermoon of the month will grace the night sky on August 1st, followed by the second on August 30th. Both supermoons will rise on the east-southeast horizon, providing a stunning spectacle for observers. The moon will be particularly captivating as it reaches its peak brightness, illuminating the surroundings with its ethereal glow.
Additionally, August’s second full moon holds another special title – a blue moon. Contrary to its name, a blue moon has nothing to do with the moon’s color. Instead, it refers to an extra 13th full moon that occurs in an annual cycle. Blue moons typically happen every two or three years, but the convergence of a blue moon and a supermoon is an exceptionally rare event.
In fact, witnessing two full supermoons in one month is a phenomenon that occurs infrequently. In fact, the last time this occurred was in January 2018, and it won’t happen again until March 2037. Looking ahead, there will only be three other instances of this extraordinary double occurrence in the current century – 2050, 2077, and 2083.
For avid stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts, August is shaping up to be an unforgettable month. With the Pacific Northwest’s reputation for clear nights and minimal light pollution, it offers an ideal backdrop for witnessing these rare celestial events. So mark your calendars and set your sights on the sky, as the month of August promises a visual feast that won’t soon be forgotten.
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