SUPER BLUE MOON

1st September, 2023 Geography

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Context

A rare astronomical phenomenon known as the "Super Blue Moon"

Details

The moon's orbit around Earth is elliptical, taking 27.3 days.
A super moon occurs when the moon is near its perigee (closest point to Earth) during a full moon.
The moon's illuminated side is fully visible during a full moon, creating a bright circle in the sky.
Super moons also occur during new moons, but they are not visible.

Blue Moon and Its Definition

A "blue moon" refers to the occurrence of two full moons within a single month.
The lunar cycle is 29.5 days, occasionally leading to a second full moon at the end of a month occasionally.
NASA supports this definition, and it happens every two to three years.

August 2023 Scenario

The first full moon occurred on August 1, which was a super moon.
The second full moon, on August 30-31, will be even larger due to its proximity to perigee.

Moon's Color and Atmosphere

Moon appears more yellow/orange near the horizon due to longer travel through the atmosphere.
Shorter, bluer wavelengths are scattered, leaving longer, redder wavelengths.
Dust or pollution can intensify the moon's reddish hue.

Size and Brightness of Super Moon

A super moon (at perigee) is about 14% larger and 30% brighter than a "micro moon" (at apogee).
The difference in size may not be noticeable to most people.
Brightness could be more discernible, influenced by factors like the "Moon illusion," cloud cover, and pollution.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q) Which of the following statements is true about super blue moons?

A) A moon that appears blue in color due to atmospheric conditions.

B) A term used to describe a moon that is exceptionally large and bright.

C) The occurrence of two full moons within a single month.

D) A rare alignment of a full moon with Earth's perigee.

Answer: C