August is set to be a remarkable month for all moon enthusiasts as it kicks off with a spectacular event – the Sturgeon Moon, also known as a supermoon, making its appearance on August 1, 2023. NASA reports that the moon will be visible just 30 minutes after sunset, showcasing its entire sunlit side as it aligns almost perfectly with the Sun and Earth. Named after the sturgeon, a once abundant giant fish in the Great Lakes, the Sturgeon Moon carries cultural significance worldwide, with full moons often being given special names related to growing seasons or festivities. This will mark the first full supermoon of 2023, a rare occurrence when the moon reaches its perigee – the closest point to Earth in its orbit, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. The peak illumination of the Sturgeon Moon is set for 2:32 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, August 1, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The term “supermoon” refers to a perigean full Moon, when the full moon coincides with its closest proximity to Earth. This results in the moon’s disk size exceeding that of an average-sized moon by up to 8% and its brightness outshining an average-sized full moon by approximately 16%. For those in the United States, the Sturgeon supermoon will be visible with the naked eye, especially toward the southeast after sunset. To get the best view, it is recommended to find a location with an unobstructed view of the horizon, away from light pollution. Notably, this supermoon will be followed by another awe-inspiring celestial event, the Blue Moon, on August 30, 2023, at 9:36 PM.
This Blue Moon will be considered the brightest full supermoon of the year, as it will be remarkably close to Earth, at just 222,043 miles away. The next time such proximity will occur is on November 5, 2025, when the moon will be 221,817 miles from Earth. The term “Blue Moon” refers to two full moons occurring in a single month, and it is a rare phenomenon. On August 30, the Blue Moon will peak at 9:36 P.M., offering another breathtaking spectacle for moon enthusiasts. So mark your calendars and prepare to witness these extraordinary lunar events. Get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty of the supermoons lighting up the night skies and take this unique opportunity to enjoy the wonders of the cosmos right from your own backyard!