Next week, a striking blue Supermoon will illuminate the sky over SF. The August full moon is on Monday the 19th, at 11:25 AM, and promises to be a dazzling sight. Since morning isn’t typically the best time for viewing the moon, you still have plenty of viewing opportunities. The moon will appear full Sunday through Wednesday morning, giving you three nights to catch a glimpse of the year’s first supermoon.
What is a supermoon?
Supermoon refers to a full moon that occurs when the moon is closest to Earth, resulting in the largest and brightest appearances for the year. The August supermoon is the first of four for 2024, with September and October’s full moons being closest to the Earth this year. The moon’s orbit results in varied distances from Earth, with the nearest point, called the perigee, being 226,000 miles from Earth. Supermoons appear 30% brighter and 14% larger than full moons at the furthest point from Earth. “Supermoon” isn’t an astrological term, but it was coined in 1979 to describe the close full moons.
What is a Blue Moon?
A Blue Moon refers to the third of four full moons within a season. So, the moon won’t actually be blue as it rises in the sky. The name dates back to the 16th century and is also used to describe the second full moon of two in a month. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the August full moon is also called the Sturgeon Moon due to a type of fish that is often caught during August.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the supermoon between Sunday and Wednesday. If you don’t have a chance to see this full moon, don’t worry; September and October’s full moons are also supermoons and will be similarly spectacular. Mark your calendars for the upcoming supermoons on August 19, September 17, and October 28.