The Super Blue Moon was indeed sighted in Pakistan on Monday, August 19, 2024. It was a rare celestial event that captured the attention of many stargazers across the country. The moon appeared larger and brighter than usual due to its proximity to Earth.
On August 19, 2024, at 11:26 PM, Pakistanis had the chance to witness a rare and stunning celestial event known as the Super Blue Moon. This spectacular sight is when the moon appears about 14% larger and much brighter due to its close proximity to Earth.
The Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) announced that this is the first Super Moon of the year in Pakistan. More Super Moons will be visible on September 18, October 17, and November 15, 2024.
A Super Blue Moon occurs when the full moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, making it look bigger and more luminous. Even though it’s name is “Blue Moon,” the moon won’t actually turn blue. The term comes from a rare event in the 19th century when a volcanic eruption caused the moon to look blue due to atmospheric conditions.
This event is extra special because it’s a Seasonal Blue Moon, a rare type of Blue Moon that only happens when there are four full moons in a single season. The next time this will occur is in 2037.
People across Pakistan, from cities like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, enjoyed this beautiful sight. The Super Blue Moon was not just visible in Pakistan but also in other countries like Greece, the UK, Australia, India, South Korea, and Indonesia.
NASA Said
Retired NASA Program Executive Gordon Johnston said, “Although it will not look blue, as the third full Moon in a season with four full Moons, this will be a Blue Moon. The first recorded use of ‘Blue Moon’ in English dates from 1528.”
“Speculations on the origin of the term include an old English phrase that means ‘betrayer Moon’ (because it led to mistakes in setting the dates for Lent and Easter). Or it may be a comparison to rare events such as when dust in the atmosphere makes the Moon appear blue. Since the 1940s the term ‘Blue Moon’ has also been used for the second full Moon in a month that has two full Moons,” he added.
So, if you have missed the chance to look up at the sky tonight and witness this extraordinary event that won’t happen again for another 13 years! good luck next time!
