Super blue moon to be visible worldwide including Pakistan

The year’s first super blue moon will be visible to the naked eye tonight, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).

This astronomical event, where the moon appears larger and brighter due to its close proximity to Earth, will be visible worldwide, including in Pakistan.

According to Suparco, the super blue moon will be visible in Pakistan on Monday at 11:26pm, marking the first supermoon sighting of the year. The agency also mentioned that three more supermoons will occur on September 18, October 17, and November 15.

A Supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it closest to Earth, making it appear up to 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter than usual. However, this month’s Supermoon is particularly special as it coincides with a Blue Moon, a phenomenon steeped in historical intrigue.

The term “Blue Moon” does not imply a change in the moon’s color but is rooted in a curious historical event. In the 19th century, a volcanic eruption caused unusual atmospheric conditions, giving the full moon a bluish hue. Since then, the term “Blue Moon” has been used to describe rare lunar occurrences.

This event marks a series of Supermoons set to appear consecutively from August through November 2024, providing ample opportunities for sky enthusiasts to witness the grandeur of the moon.

On August 19, the moon will be at a distance of approximately 226,000 miles from Earth, promising a sight that will captivate viewers across the country.