Rare Blue Supermoon in Seoul

On Monday, August 19, 2024, South Korea's capital, Seoul, will witness the rise of a rare blue supermoon, marking the first occurrence of its kind this year. Contrary to its name, a blue moon does not refer to its color but signifies the second full moon within a calendar month or the fourth full moon in a season. As the moon ascends at dusk, it is expected to exhibit red or yellow hues due to atmospheric refraction. This blue supermoon is part of a series of astronomical events, with NASA announcing it as the first of four consecutive supermoons in 2024. Supermoons appear larger and brighter than typical full moons, as they occur when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, approximately 23,000 kilometers nearer than usual on this occasion. The last blue supermoon was observed in the UK in August 2023, and the next one is not anticipated until 2037, making this event particularly significant for skywatchers. NASA has confirmed that the moon will maintain its full appearance for three days, from Sunday morning through early Wednesday morning, providing ample opportunity for enthusiasts to enjoy the celestial display. As the blue supermoon rises, it promises to be a captivating sight for residents and astronomers alike, highlighting the beauty and wonder of our natural world.