A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to the Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. This phenomenon is caused by the moon’s orbit around the Earth being tilted at an angle of about 5 degrees, resulting in the moon’s closest approach to the Earth varying throughout its orbit.
When is the Next Supermoon?
According to NASA, the next supermoon will occur on July 13, 2024.
What is the Difference Between a Supermoon and a Blue Moon?
- Supermoon: Occurs when the moon is at its closest point to the Earth, making it appear larger and brighter.
- Blue Moon: Occurs when there is a second full moon in a calendar month.
Supermoon 2024: Key Facts
Feature | Value |
---|---|
Date | July 13, 2024 |
Time | 12:08 UTC (08:08 AM Eastern Time) |
Name | Buck Moon |
Distance from Earth | 226,064 miles (363,776 kilometers) |
Apparent Size | 14.5% larger than a typical full moon |
Apparent Brightness | 30% brighter than a typical full moon |
Viewing the Supermoon
The supermoon will be visible to the naked eye from anywhere on Earth with clear skies. However, the best views will be in areas with dark skies and minimal light pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will the supermoon be visible during the day?
- A: No, the supermoon will not be visible during the day as it will be below the horizon.
Q: Can I see the supermoon through my telescope?
- A: Yes, using a telescope or binoculars will enhance your viewing experience.
Q: What is the significance of the Buck Moon?
- A: The Buck Moon is the name given to July’s full moon by Native American tribes because it was typically the time of year when male deer (bucks) grew new antlers.
Q: Is it safe to look directly at the supermoon?
- A: Yes, it is safe to look directly at the supermoon without causing any damage to your eyes.
Full Moon Total Eclipse 2024
On April 8, 2024, North America will witness a total lunar eclipse, where the Moon passes entirely within the Earth’s shadow. This celestial event will occur during a Full Moon, making it a Blood Moon, appearing a deep red or copper color.
The eclipse will be visible from most of North America, with the best views in the eastern US and Canada. During totality, the Moon will be visible for approximately 3 hours, from 11:29 pm to 2:54 am Eastern Time. Observers can expect a spectacular view of the Moon’s darkened surface, surrounded by a faint reddish glow.
This total lunar eclipse is a rare and awe-inspiring celestial event. It offers an opportunity to witness the interplay of the Sun, Earth, and Moon and to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the cosmos.
Supermoon Perigee 2024
The supermoon perigee event of 2024 will occur on the night of July 12-13. During this event, the full moon will be at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, resulting in an unusually large and bright moon in the night sky. The moon will appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.
The supermoon perigee occurs when the full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, which is known as perigee. This celestial event happens approximately once a year, and in 2024, it will take place at 10:06 PM EDT on July 12.
This supermoon perigee will be particularly notable because the full moon will be positioned near the constellation of Sagittarius, adding to its visual impact. Observers can expect to witness a breathtaking celestial display, with the extra-large and luminous moon casting an ethereal glow upon the night landscape.
Supermoon Closest to Earth 2024
In 2024, the Earth will witness a spectacular supermoon event. A supermoon occurs when the full moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter. On July 13, 2024, the moon will reach its closest approach to our planet, coming within 221,577 miles (356,600 kilometers). This will be the closest supermoon of the year, providing an exceptional opportunity for moonwatchers and photographers. The moon will have an apparent diameter of 34.5 minutes of arc and a surface brightness of approximately -12.7. The event will coincide with the full moon phase, further enhancing its visible size and luminosity.
Full Moon Lunar Eclipse 2024
The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse of 2024 is a rare celestial event that will occur on March 25th. It will be a total lunar eclipse, meaning that the Moon will pass completely through the Earth’s shadow. This will result in the Moon appearing to turn a deep red color, which is often referred to as a "blood moon."
The eclipse will be visible from North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. It will begin at 9:21 pm EST and reach its peak at 12:00 am EST. The total eclipse will last for about an hour, and the entire event will conclude by 2:54 am EST.
Lunar eclipses are a relatively common occurrence, but total lunar eclipses are much rarer. The last total lunar eclipse visible from North America was in January 2019. The next total lunar eclipse visible from North America will not occur until March 14th, 2025.
Supermoon Rising Time 2024
In 2024, there will be four supermoons, occurring on January 2, June 10, July 3, and December 26. These celestial events occur when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual.
The rising times of the supermoons in 2024 vary depending on the location and time zone. However, generally, the supermoons will rise around sunset and reach their zenith, or highest point in the sky, around midnight or later. Specific rising times can be calculated using astronomical calculators or mobile apps.
Observers should note that the exact time and appearance of the supermoon can vary slightly due to factors such as cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the viewer’s location.
Supermoon Setting Time 2024
The next supermoon is expected to occur on August 1, 2024, known as the August Sturgeon Moon. It will reach its peak fullness at 10:32 AM UTC and will be closest to Earth at 11:10 AM UTC. The moon will then begin to set, with the exact setting time varying depending on your location. For example, in New York City, the supermoon is expected to set at approximately 8:30 PM, while in London, it will set around 9:00 PM.
Full Moon Visibility 2024
In 2024, there will be 13 full moons, including one lunar eclipse. The full moons will occur on the following dates:
- January 2: Full Wolf Moon (Visible in the Western Hemisphere)
- January 31: Full Snow Moon (Visible worldwide)
- March 1: Full Worm Moon (Visible in the Western Hemisphere)
- March 31: Full Pink Moon (Visible worldwide)
- April 29: Full Flower Moon (Visible worldwide)
- May 28: Full Straw Moon (Visible in the Eastern Hemisphere)
- June 26: Full Hay Moon (Visible worldwide)
- July 25: Full Buck Moon (Visible worldwide)
- August 23: Full Sturgeon Moon (Lunar Eclipse, Visible in North America, South America, Western Europe, and Africa)
- September 19: Full Harvest Moon (Visible worldwide)
- October 18: Full Hunter’s Moon (Visible worldwide)
- November 17: Full Beaver Moon (Visible worldwide)
- December 16: Full Cold Moon (Visible in the Western Hemisphere)
Supermoon in your Area 2024
Mark your calendar for the magnificent spectacle of the supermoon in 2024. A supermoon occurs when the full moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. In 2024, there will be four supermoons, occurring on the following dates:
- July 16th: Buck Supermoon
- August 15th: Sturgeon Supermoon
- September 14th: Harvest Supermoon
- October 14th: Hunter Supermoon