How to Spot the Blue Moon in 2020: A Simple Guide

Have you ever heard the term blue moon and wondered what it means? A blue moon is not a moon that appears to be blue in color, contrary to its name, but rather the second full moon in a single calendar month. This rare celestial event is an exciting phenomenon for astronomy enthusiasts and casual moon watchers alike. In 2020, if you know when and where to look, you can experience the blue moon. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you spot the blue moon on October 31st.

The Mystery of the Blue Moon

A blue moon is a fascinating and somewhat misunderstood term, due to its meaning being often confused with the actual color of the moon. The phrase once in a blue moon has been a common idiom in English for centuries, meaning something that happens rarely. However, the scientific definition of a blue moon is slightly different. According to the International Astronomical Union, a blue moon is the name given to the second full moon in a calendar month. This is a fairly rare event, happening roughly once every 2.7 years in the Gregorian calendar.

The Blue Moon on October 31, 2020

On the night of October 31, 2020, a blue moon will occur. If conditions are clear, you will be able to see this celestial event. Here is a simple guide to help you witness it:

Choose the Right Night: Make sure to plan for October 31, as this is the date of the blue moon. Find a Clear Sky: For optimal visibility, try to find a location away from city lights. Smog, pollution, or cloudy skies can hinder your view of the moon. Look at the Right Time: The moon will rise in the evening, so wait until nightfall to start your observation. The second full moon of October will occur after the 30th moon, typically around 9 PM or later, depending on your time zone. Observe with Bystanders: Gather with friends or family to increase your chances of spotting the moon and make the experience more enjoyable.

Understanding the Astronomy Behind the Blue Moon

To truly appreciate the blue moon, it’s helpful to understand the astronomy behind it. A full moon occurs when the moon is positioned directly opposite the sun in its orbit. This alignment causes the moon to be completely illuminated by the sun. Since the moon orbits the Earth every 27.32 days, it can happen that in certain months, there are two full moons. The first full moon is typically called the Harvest Moon, and the second is the blue moon. This event is caused by the mismatch between the lunar cycle (29.5 days) and the calendar month (29.5-30 days).

While a blue moon is rare, there are other instances where this phenomenon can occur. Every so often, a blue moon happens twice in one month, which is known as a blue moon blue moon or a moon after another. This can occur in months with 30 or 31 days, when the first full moon can occur near the beginning of a month and the second one can occur a little over a week later, producing a blue moon.

Other Celestial Events in 2020

Bluemoons are just one of the many fascinating celestial events that occurred or will occur in 2020. Here are some other notable events:

Partial Lunar Eclipse: A partial lunar eclipse occurred on January 10, 2020, providing an additional opportunity for sky watchers. Solar Eclipses: Two solar eclipses took place in 2020, one partial on June 1, and one total eclipse on December 14. These events can be quite dramatic and are visible in different regions around the world. Planetary Alignments: Throughout the year, various planets aligned in the night sky, including the solar system planets Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Planetary alignment provides a unique opportunity to observe several planets in one night.

Activities to Enhance Your Moon Watching Experience

Wishing to enhance your moon watching experience can be a delightful pursuit. Here are a few activities you can engage in:

Photography: Capture the beauty of the blue moon with your camera. A DSLR or even a smartphone with a decent camera can help you take amazing pictures of the night sky. Star Gazing: Engage in star gazing with a telescope or binoculars to get a closer look at the moon’s surface and to observe other celestial objects like planets and stars. Night Walks: Organize a night walk with friends or family to enjoy the beauty of the night sky together, adding a social and communal aspect to your moon watching.

These activities not only enhance your understanding and appreciation of the blue moon but also provide a unique connection to nature and the cosmos.

The next time a blue moon occurs, take the time to observe and appreciate it. It's a rare and fascinating event that can be both educational and enjoyable. Remember, all you need to see a blue moon is a clear night and the desire to look up. Happy moon watching!