How to View the Rare Blue Micromoon on May 30, 2023
Tonight's blue micromoon won't happen again until 2053. Here's how to see it
National Post
Image: National Post
On May 30, 2023, a blue micromoon will occur, marking a rare astronomical event that won't happen again until 2053. Despite its name, the moon won't appear blue or particularly small. It will be visible all night, rising shortly after sunset.
- 01The blue micromoon is a combination of a blue moon and a micromoon, occurring when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth.
- 02There are two definitions of a blue moon: the older refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons, while the newer definition refers to the second full moon in a month.
- 03Blue moons occur approximately every 33 months, with the next seasonal blue moon on May 20, 2027.
- 04The last double blue moon occurred in January and March 2018, with no full moon in February.
- 05The blue micromoon will be visible on the evening of May 30, 2023, with the star Arcturus nearby.
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On May 30, 2023, a unique astronomical event known as the blue micromoon will occur, combining the phenomena of a blue moon and a micromoon. Despite the name, the moon will not actually appear blue or particularly small; it will be at its apogee, approximately 407,000 kilometers from Earth, which is about 14% smaller and 30% dimmer than a supermoon. The term 'blue moon' can refer to either the second full moon in a month or the third full moon in a season with four full moons. Although blue moons happen roughly every 33 months, the blue micromoon won't occur again until 2053. To view this event, look for the full moon rising shortly after sunset on May 30, and enjoy the sight of the bright star Arcturus nearby. This event is a great opportunity for stargazers and casual observers alike.
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