The Blue Supermoon, and Where to See it From Colombia

The Blue Supermoon is a fascinating celestial phenomenon that occurs when the Moon is in its full phase and reaches its closest point to Earth, known as its perigee. This causes the Moon to appear about 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual in the night sky.

According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), this event takes place approximately every two and a half years. Furthermore, the term “Blue Supermoon” is often used to refer to the second full moon that appears in the same month.

However, the name “Blue Supermoon” can be somewhat misleading, as the Moon doesn’t actually turn blue. The adjective “blue” comes from the tradition of calling the second full moon that occurs within less than 30 days a “Blue Moon.”

How to Observe the Blue Supermoon in Colombia?

This time around, since the Moon is in its waxing phase, it is expected to reach its full phase on Thursday, August 31st in Colombia, marking the beginning of the Blue Supermoon phenomenon. This spectacle will be visible in much of the world, provided that weather conditions allow.

It’s important to note that, although the Moon is often associated with night-time hours, it is also visible during the day as a faint, pale presence in the sky. The optimal times to observe it during the day are during the first and last quarter phases when it is sufficiently elevated above the horizon and about 90 degrees away from the sun in the sky.

To enjoy the August Supermoon, experts advise looking for areas with little artificial lighting, preferably in rural locations away from the city. Excessive urban light can hinder a clear view of the Moon.

Additionally, the use of binoculars and telescopes can provide a more detailed perspective of the celestial body, allowing for the observation of its craters and other enhancing aspects during this Supermoon.

How Common Are Blue Moon Events?

In terms of frequency, seasonal Blue Moons are less common than monthly ones. During a span of 1,100 years, between 1550 and 2650, there have been 408 seasonal Blue Moons and 456 monthly ones recorded. This indicates that one of these types of Blue Moons occurs approximately every two or three years.

However, the occurrence of a Blue Moon that takes on a blue hue is exceptionally rare and is more related to atmospheric conditions than lunar phases. Factors such as volcanic ash, smoke, water droplets in the air, or certain types of clouds can contribute to the Moon appearing in that unique color to the observer’s eye.