Witnessing the Lunar Show: A guide to watching August's supermoon and the upcoming lunar spectacles

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The upcoming supermoon is set to captivate sky-watchers with its awe-inspiring beauty as it shines in the night sky next week. This celestial event marks the first of four supermoons to grace our skies this year, offering a rare opportunity to witness Earth's celestial companion in all its glory.

On Monday, stargazers can witness the full moon making a slightly closer approach to Earth than usual, giving it a larger and brighter appearance. Dr. Noah Petro, project scientist for NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, encourages people to take advantage of this celestial spectacle as a reason to observe the moon more frequently.

Following August's supermoon, the series of lunar events continues with September's supermoon coinciding with a partial lunar eclipse. October will bring the year's closest approach of the moon, while November's supermoon will conclude the lunar show for the year. But what exactly makes a supermoon so special? While the term "supermoon" is more colloquial than scientific, it refers to a phenomenon where a full moon aligns with a close approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit.

This alignment occurs only a few times a year, resulting in the moon appearing slightly larger and brighter in the sky. Although the difference in size may be subtle to the naked eye, experts note that a supermoon can appear up to 30% brighter than an average full moon. The quartet of supermoons this year will showcase varying distances from Earth, with each offering a unique viewing experience for sky enthusiasts.

The upcoming supermoons provide an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to observe the moon's intricate features and appreciate its beauty. As countries like the U.S.

gear up for future lunar exploration missions, including plans for manned landings and scientific research, interest in the moon is at an all-time high. For Dr. Petro, who played a pivotal role in Apollo's moonwalkers program and is now involved in the Artemis mission, the renewed interest in lunar exploration is both exciting and inspiring.

As the supermoon illuminates the night sky, it serves as a reminder of the wonder and beauty of our celestial neighbor. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a casual observer, the supermoon offers a captivating display that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who take the time to gaze upon it. In conclusion, the upcoming supermoon presents a unique opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the cosmic world around us.

Whether you're tuning in from your backyard or joining a local astronomy group for a viewing party, don't miss out on this rare chance to witness the breathtaking wonder of a supermoon in all its splendor.