Get ready for a spectacular celestial event this weekend as the Buck Moon supermoon lights up the night sky. On July 2 and July 3, the first full supermoon of 2023 will reach its peak illumination, appearing 16% brighter than an average full moon.
The Buck Moon supermoon is named after the antlers of male deer, or bucks, which are in full-growth mode during this time of year. It is also known as the Thunder Moon, as it coincides with the beginning of thunderstorms in early summer.
This supermoon will be the first of four consecutive full supermoons, with others visible on Aug. 1, Aug. 30-31, and Sept. 28-29. Full supermoons appear larger and brighter due to their position in the sky. The moon moves around the Earth in an elliptical orbit, bringing it closer at some points and farther away at others.
At its nearest point, the Buck Moon will be approximately 224,895.4 miles from Earth. This proximity to our planet makes it one of the closest full moons of the year. In comparison, August’s Blue Moon, the second full moon of that month, will reach perigee at 222,043 miles from Earth.
The term “supermoon” was coined by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 and is used to describe a full moon that reaches its peak less than 10 hours after its orbit becomes closest to Earth. This positioning creates a stunning visual display for sky gazers.
Earlier this year, we had three new supermoons, but they were not visible as they were positioned between the Earth and the sun, leaving them unilluminated. However, the upcoming Buck Moon supermoon will be a sight to behold.
So mark your calendars and set your alarms for the early morning of July 3, when the Buck Moon supermoon will shine its brightest at 7:39 a.m. Eastern time. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the beauty of a supermoon and enjoy the enchanting glow it brings to the night sky.
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What are some optimal viewing locations for the Buck Moon supermoon to avoid light pollution
Prepare for an extraordinary cosmic phenomenon this weekend when the night sky dazzles with the radiant glow of the Buck Moon supermoon. On both July 2 and July 3, we will witness the culmination of the first full supermoon of 2023, illuminating our surroundings with a brilliance 16% more intense than a typical full moon.
The Buck Moon, named for the antlered creatures who begin to grow their new velvety antlers during this season, promises to be a sight to behold. As the moon reaches its peak illumination, it will showcase a mesmerizing radiance, captivating stargazers and lunar enthusiasts alike.
This celestial event, commonly referred to as a supermoon, occurs when the moon’s elliptical orbit brings it closer to Earth, enhancing its apparent size and brightness. As a result, the moon appears larger and more luminous than usual, making for an awe-inspiring spectacle that never fails to leave us in awe of the vast wonders of our universe.
On these spectacular nights, we will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the moon in all its resplendent glory. Its soft silver light will cast an enchanting glow upon the Earth, illuminating landscapes and offering a truly magnificent spectacle for all those who take a moment to look up.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a lover of all things celestial, or simply someone who appreciates the captivating beauty of the natural world, be sure to mark your calendar for this celestial delight. Gather with friends, family, or even take a solitary stroll under the moonlit sky to revel in the ethereal splendor that awaits.
Remember to find a location away from excessive light pollution for an optimal viewing experience. Open fields, mountaintops, or serene beaches are all excellent options to immerse yourself fully in the celestial spectacle. It’s a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the everyday world and appreciate the magnificence of the universe.
So, make sure to set aside some time this weekend to witness the magic of the Buck Moon supermoon. Get ready to be captivated by its brilliance and let the celestial wonder fill you with a sense of awe and wonder. This will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience that reminds us of the vastness and beauty of the cosmos.
I can’t wait to witness the ethereal beauty and the celestial spectacle of the Buck Moon. Looking forward to being mesmerized by the first supermoon of 2023!