The first Super Blue Moon of 2024 was a rare celestial event that lit up the skies of Saudi Arabia on Monday night, Aug. 19. This phenomenon occurs when the moon is at its closest distance to Earth, making it appear 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than usual. The full super moon of the month of Safar was seen in several Saudi regions, with the next opportunity to witness such an event not until May 2027. Majed Abu Zahra, director of the Jeddah Astronomy Society (JAS), explained that the super moon, also known as a “seasonal blue moon,” happens roughly once every two and a half years.
Despite the name “blue moon,” the moon did not actually appear blue during this event. The term “super moon” refers to a full or new moon that happens when the moon is within 90 percent of its closest distance to Earth. In this case, the distance between the moon’s and Earth’s centers was 361,969 kilometers. Each month, the moon passes through its closest point to Earth (perigee) and its farthest point from Earth (apogee). A super moon occurs when the moon is full and at its closest point to Earth, causing it to appear larger and brighter than usual. NASA predicts that this super moon will be the first of four consecutive super moons this year, with the others occurring in September, October, and November.
The occurrence of a “seasonal blue moon” where four full moons appear in a season, happens at a rate of about once every two and a half years. The next one is expected to take place on May 20, 2027. Despite the spectacular sight of the super blue moon, Abu Zahra reassured that it will have no significant impacts on Earth other than causing the natural tides phenomenon. Every month when the moon is full, the Earth, Moon, and Sun align, causing the rise and fall of sea levels. The super blue moon will not cause any increase in geological activity or unusual weather patterns in Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, the rare occurrence of the first Super Blue Moon of 2024 in Saudi Arabia was a breathtaking sight that won’t be seen again until 2027. The event marked the moon’s closest distance to Earth, making it appear bigger and brighter than usual. Despite its name, the moon did not actually turn blue during this phenomenon. The super moon is a rare event that happens once every two and a half years and occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, resulting in a larger and brighter appearance. While the super blue moon may have captivated observers in Saudi Arabia, it is important to note that it will not have any major impacts on Earth, other than the natural tides phenomenon.
The upcoming super moons in September, October, and November will continue to dazzle sky gazers, with the next seasonal blue moon not expected until 2027. The super blue moon event in Saudi Arabia was a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the universe, and serves as a reminder of the importance of appreciating and preserving our natural world. As we await the next super moon in the months ahead, let us continue to marvel at the wonders of the night sky and cherish the fleeting moments of celestial beauty that illuminate our lives.
