Last Blue Moon of decade happened last night

Tech

Published: 2019-05-19 11:55

Last Updated: 2024-03-28 23:14


Via Daily Express
Via Daily Express

The last blue moon of this decade rose into the sky Saturday night, May 18, 2019, not to be seen again until 2021.

Here is everything you need to know about the exciting celestial event.

What is it?

A ‘Blue Moon’ is, essentially, the second full moon in one calendar month, or as the Old Farmer’s Almanac explains, it can also refer to the penultimate full moon in a season that has four.

Last night's full moon was the third of four this spring.

Why is this one special?

Despite the phrase "once in a blue moon," the phenomenon is not particularly rare (and not especially blue), occurring about once every two to three years. However, what is curious about this one is that it was the last until August 22, 2021, making it the final blue moon of the decade.

When can I see it?

The visibility of any moon obviously depends greatly on local weather conditions, but in theory, you should be able to gaze upon it from anytime late Saturday evening into the early hours of Sunday.