A rare Super Blue Moon to illuminate night sky today

The Capital News 

The world is set to marvel at the night sky today as a rare astronomical event unfolds – a Super Blue Moon. This extraordinary celestial occurrence is a rarity in astronomical history, with the next appearance anticipated only in 2037. The terms “Super Moon” and “Blue Moon” are familiar to many, but what exactly is a Super Blue Moon? Is the moon really blue tonight? A Super Blue Moon is a remarkable phenomenon in astronomy. It occurs when the moon is about 90 percent closer to Earth, making it appear larger than usual.

This closer proximity to Earth results in what is called a “Super Moon.” A “Blue Moon,” on the other hand, happens when there is a third full moon in a calendar season that has four full moons. Despite its name, a Blue Moon is not actually blue. The moon appears blue due to the scattering of red wavelengths of light by smaller particles like dust or smoke in the atmosphere. This effect, though rare, can create a blueish tint to the moon. NASA has clarified that the term “Blue Moon” does not imply the moon’s color but rather its occurrence as an additional full moon within a given time frame.

What makes today’s event particularly special is that both a Super Moon and a Blue Moon coincide, and it also happens to be Rakhi Purnima, adding to the festive atmosphere. As the next Super Blue Moon won’t occur until 2037, tonight offers a unique opportunity for stargazers and enthusiasts alike to witness this celestial marvel. So, take a moment tonight to step outside, gaze up at the sky, and enjoy the enchanting sight of the Super Blue Moon—an event that beautifully blends nature’s grandeur with festive celebration.