Stargazers across Pakistan are in for a celestial treat as a rare Super Blue Moon is set to grace the skies on August 19.
This astronomical event, where the moon appears larger and brighter due to its close proximity to Earth, will be visible worldwide, including in Pakistan.
A Supermoon occurs when the moon's orbit brings it closest to Earth, making it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual. However, this month’s Supermoon is particularly special as it coincides with a Blue Moon, a phenomenon steeped in historical intrigue.
The term “Blue Moon” does not imply a change in the moon’s color but is rooted in a curious historical event. In the 19th century, a volcanic eruption caused unusual atmospheric conditions, giving the full moon a bluish hue. Since then, the term "Blue Moon" has been used to describe rare lunar occurrences.
There are two types of Blue Moons: the Seasonal Blue Moon, which is the third full moon in a season that has four full moons, and the Monthly Blue Moon, which refers to the second full moon in a calendar month. The upcoming moon on August 19 is a Seasonal Blue Moon, a spectacle that won’t be seen again until 2037.
This event marks a series of Supermoons set to appear consecutively from August through November 2024, providing ample opportunities for sky enthusiasts to witness the grandeur of the moon.
On August 19, the moon will be at a distance of approximately 226,000 miles from Earth, promising a sight that will captivate viewers across the country.
