Tonight, the “Blue Moon” will light up the night sky – Demotivator

This Sunday, August 22, a “blue moon” will appear in the sky. A very rare phenomenon.

After the rain of shooting stars of the Perseids, it is the turn of the “Blue Moon” to make speak about it.

Also to see

This Sunday evening, August 22, a very rare lunar phenomenon will illuminate the night sky: the “Blue Moon”.

Photo Credit: Nasa / Adobe stock

The full blue moon: a rare phenomenon

A “Blue Moon” is actually the second full Moon that appears in a month, or the third full moon of a season with four full moons. Tonight’s one belongs to the second category.

” Usually there is only one full moon per month, but sometimes another one appears. The full moon occurs every 29 days, while most months are 30 or 31 days. Two full moons can be reconciled in a month. This happens on average every two and a half years ”, explains NASA.

The moon will not be blue

Contrary to what its name suggests, the natural satellite will not take on a bluish tint. Indeed, the Moon will remain white or will sport a pale yellow color. The latter will be bigger and brighter than usual.

Photo credit : Onkamon / Shutterstock

Unsurprisingly, this celestial spectacle will be observable with the naked eye. Astronomy enthusiasts can also use a pair of binoculars or a telescope to observe it more closely.

Please note, the next Blue Moon will take place in August… 2023! Rest assured, the Orionids meteor shower will be active from October 2 to November 7, 2021.