Across North America, skywatchers will be treated to an uncommon full moon on the night of August 30. This will be a second full moon in the same calendar month, a pairing that happens only once every year or two. Because of its rarity, this lunar event is popularly called a blue Moon, a name that isn’t about the moon’s color or shadow but rather its calendar timing, as explained by NASA. The term has long circulated among observers and remains a simple shorthand that captures the surprise of two full moons in one month rather than any change in the moon’s appearance.
Astronomers note that the August 30 full moon will also be a supermoon, which means the Moon will be at or near perigee—the closest point in its orbit to Earth. When a supermoon occurs, observers on the ground may notice the Moon looking brighter and slightly larger than usual. In practice, the apparent disk grows by about 7% compared with other full moons, a subtler change that still sparks excitement among stargazers. The combination of a blue Moon and a supermoon creates a visually striking event that can be witnessed with the naked eye under a clear sky, though binoculars or a small telescope will reveal more detail of the lunar surface and texture.
The last time a blue Moon rose was in August 2021, and the phenomenon was repeated in August 2024. For northern hemisphere observers, the sky will present a clear opportunity to compare two rare lunar events in a single night—the blue Moon and a brighter-than-average full Moon in the same moment. This pairing offers a memorable moment for amateur astronomers and casual observers alike, inviting a closer look at how two full moons can appear in quick succession and what makes them stand out from ordinary lunar cycles.
This year, fans of the night sky will also have a chance to spot Saturn near the blue Moon. Saturn will appear distinctly bright because of its current position in the sky, though the planet’s iconic rings will require binoculars or a telescope to be seen in their full glory. The pairing offers a striking nocturnal scene for enthusiasts across Canada and the United States who take a little time to scan the heavens after twilight. As Saturn climbs higher after sunset, its pale, steady glow provides a gentle contrast to the Moon, turning the sky into a shared canvas where both worlds seem to orbit in tandem and invite patient observation.
Historically, connections have been drawn between the cycles of large moons and terrestrial events. Some researchers have explored whether the approach of a supermoon can be associated with spikes in natural phenomena like earthquakes or volcanic activity. While most scientists remain cautious about such links, the topic remains a popular talking point in discussions about lunar influence and Earth’s natural rhythms, especially during major celestial alignments. The August sky offers a tangible reminder of how planetary movements relate to our planet and how observers can witness these dynamics with simple tools, patience, and a clear, dark night. The conversation continues in scientific circles and among enthusiasts who enjoy correlating celestial timing with terrestrial events and trends, even as the consensus emphasizes the absence of direct causal connections. NASA notes that while correlations can be intriguing, they do not imply causation and should be approached with cautious interpretation to avoid overstating any supposed lunar effects.”