This full Moon is particularly special, as it marks a rare convergence of a supermoon and a Blue Moon, making it an extraordinary spectacle. Coinciding with the Indian festival of Raksha Bandhan on August 19, the Moon won’t actually turn blue, but the occurrence of these two phenomena together makes it a must-see event.

The supermoon can be enjoyed with the naked eye, using a telescope or binoculars can significantly enhance the experience by revealing intricate details of the lunar surface, such as craters and mountains. Experts also recommend checking the weather forecast to avoid cloud cover, as well as allowing your eyes some time to adjust to the darkness for the best viewing experience.

What is supermoon

On August 19, 2024, the full Moon will be classified as a supermoon. The term was introduced by an astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979. A supermoon occurs when a full or new Moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. This proximity makes the Moon appear larger and brighter than usual, capturing public attention. This would be the first among the four upcoming supermoons in 2024. The full Moons in September and October will be some of the most striking of the year.

The next super Blue Moons are expected in January and March 2037. According to NASA, tiny particles in the air, viz. smoke or dust, can scatter red wavelengths of light, making the Moon appear blue.