In September 2023, there will be an amazing sight in the night sky: a full moon, a supermoon, and something called a blue moon. But what do these words mean, and how can you enjoy this cool event, harvest moon?
Understanding the Terms: Supermoon and Blue Moon
The blue moon and super moon are terms that have fascinated many for years.
- Supermoon: A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth during its orbit. As a result, the moon can appear more substantial and luminous than usual.
- Fun Fact: Although the size difference might not be very evident, a supermoon can look up to 14% bigger than when it’s at its farthest from Earth. To visualize this, compare a quarter to a nickel – that’s roughly the size difference.
- Blue Moon: The term “blue moon” might conjure images of a moon tinged in sapphire hues, but in reality, a blue moon refers to the occurrence of two full moons within a single month.
- Color Myth Busted: Will the moon actually appear blue? No. However, in rare circumstances, when particles like dust or smoke fill the air, they can scatter the red wavelengths of light, causing the moon to look blue.
The super blue moon happening in 2023 is a remarkable event. It’s when a supermoon and a blue moon occur together. We had a similar super blue moon in 2017, which was also fascinating. But the 2023 one is extra special because it lines up with the harvest moon, making it even rarer and more memorable.
The Significance of the Harvest Moon:
The next full moon is important because it’s called the harvest moon, linked to the start of autumn. ‘Harvest’ supermoon to rise at the end of September. But why is it called the ‘harvest’ moon?
Centuries ago, moonlight played a vital role in farming. Before the advent of machinery equipped with lights, farmers depended on the moon’s illumination to harvest their crops during late summer and early fall. The importance of moonlight during this peak harvest time gave birth to the term “harvest moon.” In fact, references to the “harvest moon” can be traced back to 1706, as per the Oxford English Dictionary.
Moreover, the harvest moon has not only held agricultural significance but also inspired creativity, as seen in Neil Young’s 1992 song “Harvest Moon” and “Harvest Moon” by George Innes’s 1891 painting of the same name.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Harvest Moon:
The impact of these lunar events isn’t just astronomical. Neil Young’s song “Harvest Moon” and its variant “Harvest Moon Neil Young” echo the sentiments of many who’ve found solace in the glow of the full moon. The captivating light has not only been a muse for artists but also an aid to farmers who worked late into the night.
For those keeping track, the full moon in October 2021 was an event in its own right, paving the way for the series of spectacular lunar displays leading up to 2023. When asked, “When is the next full moon 2023?” enthusiasts eagerly point to the upcoming super blue moon, marking it as a pinnacle of celestial events this year.
Supermoon Series of 2023:
The upcoming harvest moon isn’t just any ordinary full moon; it’s also a super moon just like the one we saw in 2017. As we get ready for the full moon in 2023, taking a brief look at the history of blue moon dates shows us how special the upcoming super blue moon is. The last blue moon was like a preview for this year’s big event, and when we compare it to past years, we can see how unique and uncommon it is.
It marks the conclusion of a series of four consecutive supermoons in 2023:
- July: Buck Moon
- August: Sturgeon Moon & Blue Moon (making the latter an exceedingly rare event since it was both a blue moon and supermoon)
- September: Harvest Moon
According to NASA, another super blue moon like August’s won’t be seen until 2037.
Mark Your Calendars
For those eager to witness this marvel, the harvest supermoon will achieve peak illumination at 5:57 a.m. EDT on Friday. Its luminance will be a testament to its role in aiding farmers before electric lights, illuminating fields, and facilitating late-night harvesting.
Super Blue Moon 2023: A Rare Celestial Event to Remember
Whether you’re thinking back to the super blue moon of 2017 or looking forward to the very special super blue moon in 2023, it’s clear that these moon events are really meaningful to us. Another important reason for the blue moon is because this is the last supermoon of the year. NASA says the next super blue moon won’t come for another 14 years. While we listen to Neil Young’s Harvest Moon quietly, we remember how much we love the moon and all the different ways it looks. Even though we saw a beautiful full moon in October 2021, this year’s super blue moon is going to be even more amazing. So, make sure you write it on your calendar!
