Pakistan to witness first super blue moon of year 2024 tonight

ISLAMABAD: Astronomers and astrologists in Pakistan are in for a treat tonight as the first super blue moon of the year graces the night sky, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).

This astronomical phenomenon, where the moon appears larger and brighter due to its closer proximity to Earth, will be visible worldwide, including in Pakistan.

Suparco reports that the super blue moon will be visible in Pakistan on Monday, August 19 at 11:26 p.m. This marks the first supermoon of the year, with three more scheduled for September 18, October 17, and November 15.

A supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it closest to Earth, making it appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than usual.

In addition, this month’s supermoon is especially notable as it coincides with a Blue Moon, a term that refers to rare lunar events rather than a change in the moon’s color.

Historically, the term “Blue Moon” originated from a 19th-century volcanic eruption that caused unusual atmospheric conditions, giving the full moon a bluish tint.

Since then, it has come to describe rare lunar occurrences. There are two types of Blue Moons: the Seasonal Blue Moon, which is the third full moon in a season with four full moons, and the Monthly Blue Moon, which is the second full moon in a calendar month. The August 19 moon is a Seasonal Blue Moon and will not reappear until 2037.

Moreover, this event kicks off a series of consecutive Supermoons from August through November 2024, offering ample opportunities for enthusiasts to enjoy the moon’s grandeur.

On August 19, the moon will be approximately 226,000 miles from Earth, promising a spectacular view for observers across the country.