Supermoons: A Guide to the Moon’s Closest Encounters

by Peter September 26, 2021

written by Peter September 26, 2021

Supermoons: A Celestial Spectacle

What is a Supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when the moon is in its full or new phase and passes through its closest point to Earth, known as perigee. This celestial event makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual.

The Recent Supermoon

On January 2, 2018, the first supermoon of the year graced the night sky. This supermoon, also known as the “wolf moon,” was the second in a supermoon trio that began on December 3rd and will conclude on January 31st.

Characteristics of a Supermoon

During a supermoon, the moon appears approximately 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is at its farthest point from Earth. However, these differences can be subtle to the naked eye.

Importance of Supermoons

Despite their modest visual impact, supermoons are still significant events. They provide an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the cosmos and appreciate the moon’s proximity to our planet.

Full Moon Names: A Cultural Tradition

Throughout history, different cultures have assigned names to each full moon based on seasonal activities or events. For example, the “wolf moon” is associated with the howling of wolves during winter.

The Blue Moon Supermoon Eclipse

The next supermoon in the series, on January 31st, will also be a “Blue Moon,” which refers to the second full moon in a calendar month. This particular Blue Moon will be accompanied by a lunar eclipse, giving the moon a striking reddish hue.

Tips for Observing Supermoons

To make the most of a supermoon, find a location with unobstructed views of the sky. Use binoculars or a telescope to enhance your observation. If possible, photograph the supermoon to capture its majestic appearance.

When to See the Next Supermoon

The next supermoon will occur on January 31, 2018. It will be the second full moon of the month, earning it the title of Blue Moon. This supermoon will also coincide with a lunar eclipse, making it a rare “blue supermoon eclipse.”

Additional Information

For more information on supermoons, visit NASA’s website: https://moon.nasa.gov/
To find out when the next supermoon will occur, check out EarthSky’s calendar: https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/supermoon-dates-2023
For tips on photographing the supermoon, refer to Space.com’s guide: https://www.space.com/32751-how-to-photograph-the-supermoon.html

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.