Rare blue supermoon will illuminate skies in the UAE this week

On August 19, residents of the United Arab Emirates will have the opportunity to witness a rare astronomical event – a blue supermoon. This occurrence, where the moon appears larger and brighter due to its close proximity to Earth, will be visible for three days, providing skywatchers with a stunning celestial display.

The phenomenon of a supermoon happens when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. This combination results in the moon appearing up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon at its farthest point from Earth, known as apogee. The term “supermoon” was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 and has since become popular parlance in the astronomy community.

In addition to being a supermoon, the upcoming event on August 19 will also be a blue moon. While the term “blue moon” typically refers to the second full moon within a calendar month, it can also describe the third full moon in a season that has four full moons. Blue moons are relatively rare, occurring approximately once every 2.7 years on average and adding an extra touch of uniqueness to this celestial event.

Furthermore, the blue supermoon on August 19 will coincide with a total lunar eclipse, also known as a blood moon. During a total lunar eclipse, the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that turns the moon a reddish hue. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth’s atmosphere scatters sunlight, with shorter wavelengths like blue and green being filtered out, leaving longer wavelengths like red and orange to illuminate the moon.

The total lunar eclipse will be visible in various parts of the world, including the UAE, providing spectators with an awe-inspiring sight of the moon as it passes through the Earth’s shadow. The combination of a blue supermoon and a total lunar eclipse is a rare occurrence, making this event a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike.

In preparation for viewing the blue supermoon and total lunar eclipse, it is advisable to find a location with a clear view of the sky, away from light pollution, to fully appreciate the celestial spectacle. Observers may also want to use binoculars or a telescope to enhance their viewing experience and catch a closer glimpse of the moon’s cratered surface during the eclipse.

The UAE’s residents can mark their calendars and set aside time to witness this extraordinary celestial event on August 19. Whether watching from a rooftop, a desert vantage point, or a beachfront location, the blue supermoon with a total lunar eclipse is sure to captivate audiences with its beauty and rarity.

As the UAE gears up for the blue supermoon and total lunar eclipse, astronomers and skywatchers alike are eagerly anticipating this unique event. With the moon shining brighter and larger than usual, set against the backdrop of a total lunar eclipse, the sky will be a sight to behold for those fortunate enough to witness it in person.

In conclusion, the blue supermoon and total lunar eclipse on August 19 will provide a celestial spectacle that is not to be missed. As the moon appears larger and brighter in the night sky, accompanied by the striking red hue of a total lunar eclipse, viewers in the UAE and around the world are in for a treat. So mark your calendars, find a prime viewing spot, and get ready to witness the beauty of this rare astronomical event.