This evening, on August 19, 2024, Baden-Württemberg is expecting a doubly rare celestial event: the first supermoon of the year, which is also a “blue moon”, will unfold its full splendor at 8:25 p.m. With a distance of only 362,061 km (7:36 p.m.) from Earth, this full moon promises a particularly impressive spectacle in the night sky of the “Ländle”. The full moon in August is also called the “harvest moon”. This name goes back to the traditional start of the harvest season for many types of vegetables.
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The “Blue Moon” – A rare celestial spectacle
What’s particularly exciting is that today’s August supermoon is also a so-called “blue moon”. Contrary to its name, this moon does not have a bluish tint. The name comes from the English expression “once in a blue moon”, which means something like “once in a blue moon”.
A “blue moon” occurs when two full moons are visible in one calendar month – a fairly rare event that only occurs every two to three years. This astronomical peculiarity makes today’s supermoon a real celestial spectacle that should not be missed.
Best observation spots in Baden-Württemberg
The supermoon rises today at 8:46 p.m. Ideal observation points are:
- Black Forest: High altitudes with clear views to the east
- Swabian Alb: Viewpoints like the Lichtenstein
- Lake Constance: promenades for a view over the water
- Stuttgart: TV tower or Karlshöhe for an urban perspective
What makes today’s moon so unique
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The close distance from Earth makes the moon appear up to 7% larger and 15% brighter than usual today. The best time for an impressive view is shortly after moonrise, when it is just above the horizon.
Blue Moon: Almost a supermoon, but only almost
A supermoon occurs when the distance between the Earth and the Moon is 360,000 kilometers or less. The Moon reaches its closest point to Earth, the so-called perigee, on August 21 at 7:02 a.m. (CEST) at a distance of 360,196 kilometers. Before and after this date, the Moon is further away from the Earth in its elliptical orbit. Whether it is a supermoon or not, the full moon is still impressive. Even if it narrowly misses the definition of a supermoon, it will still fascinate us with its appearance. The next super full moon will be visible on September 18, 2024.
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Outlook: Upcoming lunar highlights
- Next new moon: September 3, 2024, 3:55 a.m.
- Other full moons in 2024:
- 18. September 2024 (Supermond)
- 17. October 2024
- 15. November 2024
- December 15, 2024
Today’s “Blue Moon” supermoon offers a rare opportunity to experience two extraordinary lunar phenomena at the same time. Whether you are in the heights of the Black Forest, on the shores of Lake Constance or on the hills of Stuttgart – take the chance to observe this unique celestial event.
Grab your camera, find a beautiful vantage point and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this special full moon. It is a moment that only happens “once in a blue moon” and will surely be remembered for a long time!Copy
