In August 2024, the full moon will be a seasonal blue moon, which is a rare event occurring when there are four full moons in a single astronomical season. The third full moon of these four is called a blue moon. This type of blue moon is infrequent, with the last one having occurred in August 2021 and the next not expected until May 2027.
The August full moon is also known as the Sturgeon Moon, a name derived from Native American traditions. This name reflects the abundance of sturgeon fish in the Great Lakes and other major waters during this time of year, serving as a marker for seasonal activities.
Rare Seasonal Blue Moon and Sturgeon Moon to Illuminate the Sky in August 2024On August 19, 2024, the full moon will reach its peak at 2:25 p.m. in New York. While the exact moment of the full moon is brief, the moon will appear nearly full for about a day before and after this peak, allowing for a three-day window where it looks full to the casual observer.
A blue moon does not refer to the moon’s color but to its rarity. It can be either a monthly blue moon, the second full moon in a calendar month, or a seasonal blue moon, the third full moon in a season with four. Blue moons occur roughly every two or three years.
For photographing the full moon, using a steady camera setup is crucial. Employing a tripod and adjusting settings such as low ISO, wide aperture, and slow shutter speed will help in capturing clear and detailed images of the moon.