A blue micromoon will make a special appearance this weekend, providing observers with a phenomenon that will not repeat until the end of 2028. Este celestial event involves a full moon that is positioned at the greatest distance from Terra of the year, resulting in a slightly smaller and fainter appearance in the night sky.
The astronomical spectacle, eagerly awaited by sky enthusiasts, is a particular type of Lua Azul, which is the second full moon to occur within the same month, according to the scientific definition. The last Lua Azul was observed in 2023, and the next is scheduled for December 31, 2028, according to information released by EarthSky. The uniqueness of the blue micromoon adds an extra layer of rarity to this already infrequent event.
Entenda the blue micromoon and its rarity
The blue micromoon is characterized by being the most distant full moon and, consequently, the one that appears to be smallest throughout the year. Este phenomenon occurs because the orbit of Lua around Terra is not perfectly circular, causing the distance between the two celestial bodies to vary over time. Esta orbital variation is crucial in determining whether the full moon will be a micromoon or a supermoon.
Diferentemente of a supermoon, when the full Lua approaches Terra, the blue micromoon is at a distance of 405,900 kilometers. In contrast, the most recent supermoon was just 362,400 kilometers away. Apesar from the name “blue”, Lua will not exhibit any turquoise, sapphire or unusual hues, as the term refers to the frequency of occurrence of two full moons in a single month, not their color.
Dicas to observe the blue micromoon
Quem who wants to witness the blue micromoon must look for the phenomenon intentionally, as its visual differences are subtle. Gianluca Masi of Projeto Telescópio Virtual told Associated Press that the micromoon will appear approximately 6% smaller and 10% fainter than a regular full moon. Essas variations are considered delicate and may go unnoticed by most observers.
Para assisting in the observation, Projeto Telescópio Virtual confirmed that it will transmit live images of the blue micromoon, captured by its robotic telescopes. Esta broadcast provides an opportunity for those who may not be able to directly observe the sky or who want an expanded view of the event.
Ocultação from Antares in specific regions
One of the most fascinating aspects of the event is the blue micromoon’s interaction with Antares, a bright star located in the Escorpião constellation. Observadores in Hemisfério Norte will be able to see Lua next to Antares. However, the most dramatic spectacle will occur for those south of Equador and at several locations within Pacífico, where Lua will appear to cross in front of the star, temporarily obscuring it.
The occultation of Antares will be a special moment for astronomers and curious onlookers in certain parts of the globe. The list of regions where the star will temporarily disappear includes:
- Argentina
- Chile
- Nova Zelândia
- Leste by Austrália
- Partes by Antártida
- Algumas other islands
Antares is a red supergiant star, located approximately 550 light-years from Terra, and is affectionately known as the “heart of the scorpion” within its constellation. Para observers in other parts of the world, Antares will remain visible, shining alongside the full moon, but without the phenomenon of occultation.