Here’s what August’s ‘blue moon’ could mean for you
 
 
 
 
 
 

Here’s what August’s ‘blue moon’ could mean for you

A super blue moon won’t happen again until 2037
/ 07:48 PM August 20, 2024

Blue moon

People walk in front of a rising supermoon at Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, Monday, Aug. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)

The phrase “once in a blue moon” is something we often hear, usually to describe an event that happens very rarely. It’s a way of saying that something is uncommon, almost extraordinary, because it occurs so infrequently that it might as well be a rare celestial event, like the actual blue moon.

This August brings a special treat for us as we get to witness a rare celestial event. Following the peak of the Perseid meteor shower last week, the first of this year’s four consecutive supermoons happens this week. This event, with both a supermoon and a blue moon, will reach its peak at 2:26 p.m. ET on Monday. But if you miss it due to your time zone, don’t worry—the moon will remain full and visible for three days.

The last time we saw such a phenomenon was in August 2023, and the next super blue moons are not expected until January and March of 2037. So, tonight is a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of this rare event.

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A blue moon occurs when there are two full moons in a single calendar month, which is quite unusual. Typically, there is only one full moon per month, but occasionally the timing allows for a second.

Although the term “blue moon” might suggest a change in color, it actually emphasizes the rarity of the event. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the phrase originates from a 16th-century expression, “the Moon is blue,” which referred to something that was considered impossible.

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Like any other rare celestial occurrences, the blue moon has also given rise to its own set of superstitions. As reported by The Standard, one belief is that setting a goal or making a plan during a blue moon can lead to achieving it sooner than expected. The unique and rare nature of the blue moon is thought to bring extra energy or luck, making it a perfect time for setting intentions and pursuing dreams.

Blue moon

German women on vacation in Portugal react to the strong wind while watching a nearly full supermoon rise over the Tagus river from the roof the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology in Lisbon, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Armando Franca)

Additionally, the blue moon is believed to enhance matters of the heart. This idea is reflected in the 2014 Filipino film “Relaks, It’s Just Pag-ibig,” directed by Irene Villamor and Antoinette Jadaone, starring Sofia Andres and Inigo Pascual. In the movie, the blue moon plays a significant role, with the belief that being with someone under its glow means they are destined to stay with you forever.

Whether you’re admiring the blue moon alone or with a special someone, it’s seen as a prime time for new beginnings and lasting connections – something worth experiencing for yourself.

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TAGS: moon, Trending, US-Featured
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