August 2024 Full Moon: A Rare “Blue” Supermoon Graces the Sky for Three Nights

The August 2024 full moon is set to dazzle the night sky, offering a spectacular celestial show that will last for three consecutive nights. This rare event, often called a “blue” supermoon, is something you won’t want to miss if you’re in Santorini—or anywhere with a clear view of the sky.

When and Where to Watch

The full moon will officially occur on Monday, August 19th. In Santorini, you’ll want to start looking up shortly after sunset, which is at 8:12 p.m. on this day. However, according to NASA, the moon will appear full as early as Saturday night, giving us a three-night window to enjoy this rare phenomenon.

What Makes This Moon Special?

This particular full moon is not just any full moon—it’s a supermoon. A supermoon occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, making it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. This August full moon is just the first of four consecutive supermoons expected in 2024, with others following in September, October, and November.

But there’s more to this moon than its size and brightness. It’s also a “blue” moon, a term that doesn’t refer to its color. There are two types of blue moons: monthly and seasonal. This one is a seasonal blue moon, which happens when there are four full moons in a single season—something that is quite rare. The next seasonal blue moon won’t occur until May 2027.

Will It Be Blue or Red?

Despite its name, the blue moon of August 2024 won’t be blue. During summer, particularly in August, the moon can often take on a deep orange or reddish hue. This effect is due to its position low on the horizon, where the Earth’s atmosphere scatters the light, giving the moon a darker, more reddish tint. This is why the August full moon is sometimes called the “Red Moon.”

The Sturgeon Moon

This full moon is also known as the “Sturgeon Moon,” a name that originates from Native American traditions. During this time of year, sturgeon fish were more easily caught in the Great Lakes and other major bodies of water, and the full moon was named in its honor.

Experience the Magic in Santorini

Santorini is already famous for its stunning sunsets, but imagine coupling that with a rare supermoon rising over the Aegean Sea. Whether you’re viewing it from the caldera, a cozy taverna, or one of the island’s many beautiful beaches, this is a natural spectacle that perfectly complements the island’s enchanting atmosphere.

So, mark your calendars and plan to gaze up at the sky from Santorini during this special time. The August 2024 full moon promises to be a truly magical experience.