The astronomers among you – or just those who are curious when it comes to rare events in our skies – may be interested to know about the ‘super snow moon’ which is on its way.
After last month’s lunar eclipse, the super snow moon will be the next phenomenon we’ll be treated to – the first thing it makes me think is that snow will be on the way.
If you take a few minutes out of your evening on February 19 to look up at the night sky, you should see a full moon – but not just any ordinary full moon.
This full moon will be the biggest and brightest of the year. If you’re wondering why, then let me fill you in. Quite simply, it’s because the moon’s orbit will be at its closest to Earth – approximately 356,800km, which equates to 221,700 miles, according to NASA. That’s like driving to Spain and back – from England – around 70 times.
It also means it’ll be the second supermoon in a row, following the ‘super blood wolf moon‘, which graced our skies January 21.
If you’re wondering where the super snow moon gets its name from, I’ll tell you.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘hunger moon’, February’s full moon gets this name because it’s this month where we often see the heaviest of snow fall, reports the Independent. Looks like I was right then!
It also comes at the end of winter, when traditionally, food was scarce.
The moon will reach its closest point to our planet – referred to as its perigee – at around 9am in the UK. However, we should see it at its fullest in the afternoon, at around 3:53pm.
So, compared to our full moons which are at their furthest point away from Earth, this one will appear 14 per cent larger, and 30 per cent brighter. The ones furthest away are called ‘micromoons’, remember that one next time you’re taking part in a pub quiz or something. You can thank me later.
While we’re on the subject of moons with weird names, check this one out. The ‘Full Worm Moon’ will be the next to make an appearance, which will show its face in the UK on March 21. A way of welcoming in the season of spring.
Remember that time we had a solar eclipse and had to wear those weird little glasses, while being told not to directly look at the sun?
Yeah well this isn’t it, we’re talking about moons remember, but a partial lunar eclipse will be coming in July, with the next full lunar eclipse coming in 2021. Can’t wait for that one.
Anyway, happy sky gazing if that’s what floats your boat.
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