Pas la peine de sortir voir la superlune bleue ce soir: ce n’est pas si exceptionnel que ça Title: “La superlune bleue: une hype sans réelle importance?”

Don’t Bother Going Out to See the Super Blue Moon Tonight: It’s Not That Impressive

A Rare Phenomenon, But Not Particularly Interesting

Tonight, we will witness a super blue moon at around 9:30 PM. This is a relatively rare phenomenon that won’t happen again until 2037. However, it is important to note that it may not be particularly interesting to observe. Let me explain why.

A Not-So-Blue and Not-So-Super Moon

Don’t expect to see a gigantic full moon with a bluish hue tonight. The terms “super moon” and “blue moon” do not refer to observable astronomical phenomena. When the moon is full at the moment it reaches its perigee, the point in its orbit closest to Earth, it is called a “super moon.” This term was coined in 1979 by Richard Nolle, an astrologer. This conjunction is indeed more meaningful to astrologers than astronomers, and it is not as rare as one might think. Super moons can occur a few times a year, with an average frequency of every 413 days.

As for the term “blue moon,” it is used when two full moons occur in the same month. The second full moon in a month is considered the “blue moon.” This is where the expression “once in a blue moon” comes from, meaning “rarely.” Apart from the timing, this full moon is no different from any other. This year, the super blue moon will be about 357,344 kilometers away from Earth, which will mainly affect tides. Every month, tides are more intense during the full moon and the new moon. When the moon is full at its perigee, as is the case with the super moon, this effect is amplified. For a few days before and after the super moon, low tides will be lower and high tides will be higher.

Not Much to See

Apart from more contrasting tides, there won’t be much special to observe with this super blue moon. Despite being closer to Earth, the diameter of the super blue moon will only appear about 14% larger, which is difficult to notice with the naked eye. The moon may appear slightly larger at moonrise and moonset, but this is due to the “moon illusion” rather than its actual proximity to Earth. This optical illusion is caused by how our brain interprets what we see when the moon is near other objects in our field of vision, such as buildings or treetops. The moon will also be slightly brighter due to its proximity, but once again, this won’t be noticeable to the human eye.

Considering all these factors, it may not be the best opportunity to bring out your telescope or binoculars, especially if the sky will only slowly clear up in the evening or late at night for some regions in Quebec.

With information from Space.com

Editorial: The Hype and Importance of Super Blue Moons

Super blue moons, despite their rare occurrence, often attract a lot of attention and excitement. People eagerly anticipate the opportunity to witness a phenomenon that sounds intriguing and magical. However, it is important to temper this enthusiasm with a dose of reality and scientific understanding.

While the term “super moon” may sound grand and awe-inspiring, it is primarily a concept that holds significance in astrology rather than astronomy. Astrologers assign meaning and interpretive power to the alignment of celestial bodies, and for them, a super moon may hold astrological significance. However, astronomers view super moons as nothing more than a regular full moon that happens to occur when the moon is at its closest point to Earth.

Similarly, the term “blue moon” refers to the occurrence of two full moons in one month. While this may sound rare, it is purely a calendrical coincidence and has little astronomical significance. The moon itself does not undergo any notable changes during a blue moon. It remains the same celestial body that we observe month after month.

The media often plays a significant role in hyping up these celestial events, fueling expectations of a spectacular show in the night sky. However, it is crucial that we approach such events with a critical and informed mindset. Understanding the scientific explanations behind these phenomena can help us appreciate their true nature and avoid disappointment.

Advice for Observing Celestial Events

While the super blue moon may not live up to its hype, there are still many other celestial events worth observing throughout the year. Here are a few tips for enjoying and appreciating these wonders of the night sky:

1. Educate Yourself

Take the time to learn about the science behind celestial events. Understanding the causes and effects of phenomena like super moons, meteor showers, and eclipses can enhance your appreciation and make the experience more meaningful.

2. Be Prepared

Research the best times and locations for observing celestial events in your area. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Dress warmly and bring any necessary equipment such as binoculars or a telescope.

3. Patience is Key

Celestial events may require patience and perseverance. Sometimes the sky may be cloudy, or the event may occur at inconvenient hours. Remember that these events are a part of the natural world and are not always predictable or controllable. Be prepared to adapt your plans if necessary.

4. Share the Experience

Watching celestial events can be a memorable and enriching experience. Consider inviting friends or family members to join you. Share your knowledge and excitement, and create lasting memories together.

By approaching celestial events with a balanced perspective, we can derive genuine enjoyment from observing the wonders of our universe, even when they may not live up to the hype. Let us appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the night sky, not just in rare moments of astronomical significance, but in the everyday marvels that surround us.

Keywords: Super Blue Moon, super moon, blue moon, hype, importance