WASHINGTON —
A rare astronomical event will occur Monday night, with those in the DMV able to see a super blue moon.
The moon will officially go from a waxing gibbous to a full moon at 2:26 PM and will begin to rise at 8:16 PM. Now what makes this moon so special? Let's break down the words, super and blue.
Super refers to a moon that appears larger than normal. This is because it is closer to the earth. According to NASA, the moon can look 14% bigger, which is comparable to the size difference of a nickel and a quarter. The moon being closer to earth will also cause higher tides due to a stronger gravitational pull, so be extra cautious if you happen to be at the beach.
When we look into the meaning of the word "blue," we get a few answers. In modern times, a blue moon occurs when there are two full moons in one month. Since a moon cycle is just under 30 days, getting two full moons in one month only happens every 2 – 3 years. So that explains the phrase "once in a blue moon." Another definition calls the third moon in a season of four full moons (summer for example) a blue moon
But does the blue moon have anything to do with the color blue? Not really.
If there is dust or smoke in the air it could filter out some of the red wavelengths of visible light and the moon may appear blue, but don’t count on it.
The best time to see Monday's super blue moon will be any time after sunset with peak viewing around midnight. If you can’t view the super blue moon, you will have to wait 13 years to see another one in 2037. But we will get another regular blue moon a bit sooner in May of 2027.
If you get pictures of the rare super blue moon we would love to see them. Share them with us on our WUSA9 Weather Watchers Facebook page, or text us at 202-895-5599.