A rare blue supermoon will light up the skies across the UK this week, appearing bigger and brighter than your average full moon. The phenomenon is also known as a Sturgeon Moon, named after sturgeon fish found in the Great Lakes of North America at this time of year. Sky-watchers in Wales captured spectacular sunsets and sunrises over the weekend, with the red glowing moon attributed to smoke from wildfires in North America carried by the jet stream to the skies above the British Isles.
Star gazers can anticipate even more rare sightings this week, as a supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, a point known as perigee. The rare moon will be full just before 7.30 pm on Monday, August 19, visible across the UK when the sun sets and darkness falls. To witness this celestial event, it is best to head to the countryside away from city lights to minimise light pollution. Although the term “supermoon” is not scientific, it describes the moon appearing larger and brighter due to its proximity to Earth.
The supermoon can be up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon, leading to slightly higher tides known as “perigean spring tides.” While the moon won’t actually appear blue, it may have a reddish tint, earning the August full moon the nickname Red Moon or Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon, and others. A blue moon can either be the second full moon in a month or the third full moon in a season with four full moons, occurring roughly once every two to three years.
If you miss this year’s supermoon, the next one is projected to happen in 2037. To optimise your viewing experience, consider using a telescope or binoculars to observe the lunar surface in more detail. Don’t forget that clear skies are essential for this astronomical event. Joining the WalesOnline WhatsApp community is an easy way to stay updated on the latest news, traffic updates, weather warnings, and more. It provides a simple way to remain informed about events in Wales.