Chennai: A rare Blue Moon will appear in the sky tonight for the first time since 2001. Blue Moon occurs when there is more than one full moon during a month.
According to NASA, it coincides with Halloween every 19 years. The Moon isn’t really blue, but will be in full bloom to make things a tad bit spookier on Halloween.
NASA said the next time when a Blue Moon and Halloween coincides will be in the year 2039.
In its blog, NASA said that Blue Moons will occur at about every two and a half years. After 2020, there are Blue Moons in August 2023, May 2026, and December 2028.
On an average, the Moon is full on Halloween every 19 years, a period known as the Metonic cycle. The Blue Moon comes after the October Harvest Moon that fell on October 2, and it theoretically signifies the time to start stocking for winter.
Blue Moon has been a significant part of enticing folklore from time immemorial while being a crucial element in the backdrop of dramatic, mysterious and horror stories. Today, Blue Moon will be visible in the night sky from around 8.19 pm.
If the sky is clear with less pollution, the Blue Moon should be clearly visible in the sky. NASA also noted that the Blue Moon this time will appear close to Mars. Since it is also Halloween night, one can enjoy the view if the skies are clear.