A rare blue micromoon arrives this weekend and won't be back until December 2028. Here's what to expect.
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- A rare blue micromoon will occur this weekend, marking the second full moon of May and the smallest and most distant full moon of the year, not to be seen again until late 2028.
- The blue micromoon appears smaller and dimmer than usual because it is at its farthest distance from Earth, about 252,360 miles, contrasting with a supermoon, which is closer and brighter.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the moon will be visible near the bright star Antares in the constellation Scorpius, while in the Southern Hemisphere, the micromoon will temporarily obscure Antares, creating a rare celestial event.
- The term "blue moon" refers to the uncommon occurrence of two full moons in one month and does not indicate any blue coloration of the moon itself.
- The Virtual Telescope Project will provide live streaming of the event, as the subtle size and brightness differences of the micromoon may be difficult for most casual observers to notice.