A rare Blue Moon will light up the skies in Australia this week, shining bright on Sunday, May 31, at 6:30 PM AEST. However, many might miss out due to cloud cover.
Earlier this month, the Flower Moon graced the night on May 2, but some areas were cloudy then, too. Let’s take a look at what to expect for the upcoming Blue Moon.
When to Look Up
If you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Canberra, you’ll want to glance up at 6:30 PM for the best view. Meanwhile, those in Adelaide and Darwin should look at 6 PM. In Perth, aim for 4:30 PM to catch a great glimpse.
Will the Moon Be Visible?
Here’s the weather forecast for various Australian cities on May 31, according to the Bureau of Meteorology:
- Sydney: Clear skies, no rain, around 16°C.
- Melbourne: Chance of showers, 52% cloud coverage.
- Brisbane: Clear, only 4% cloud with a pleasant 17°C.
- Perth: Showers expected with 73% cloud.
- Adelaide: Possible showers, 50% cloud from 6 PM.
- Darwin: Clear with only 9% cloud.
- Hobart: Showers and 53% cloud, around 6°C.
- Canberra: Mostly clear, 6°C, 44% cloud.
What Is a Blue Moon?
A Blue Moon is quite special, happening every two to three years—a total of about seven times in 19 years, according to Royal Museums Greenwich. Despite the name, it won’t actually appear blue; it’ll look like the usual gray or white.
There are two types: a monthly Blue Moon, which is the second full moon in one month, and a seasonal one, which is the third full moon in a season that has four full moons. The name itself has a fuzzy origin; some claim it came from visibility issues after volcanic eruptions, while others relate it to folklore from over 400 years ago.
Interestingly, the next time we’ll see two Blue Moons in one year will be in 2037.
Keeping an eye on the sky can be rewarding, so be sure to check for updates and enjoy this celestial event!
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Blue Moon, Flower Moon, full moon, cloud coverage
