SINGAPORE: Singaporeans were treated to a celestial spectacle on Thursday night as they gazed at the largest full moon of the year, commonly known as the Blue Moon. The breathtaking event was captured on camera by astronomy enthusiasts across the city-state, igniting widespread fascination on social media.
The Blue Moon, a rare astronomical phenomenon, graced the night sky on Thursday, becoming the focal point of the evening for stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike. This occurrence was even more special because it marked the full moon’s closest approach to Earth all year, resulting in an exceptionally large and luminous display.
With its unobstructed views of the night sky, East Coast Park emerged as a popular gathering spot for those eager to witness this astral wonder firsthand. Numerous individuals flocked to the park, armed with telescopes, binoculars, and large camera equipment, all poised to document the celestial marvel.
Photography enthusiasts seized the opportunity to share their Blue Moon photographs on various social media platforms. Facebook group ‘CloudSpotting & SkySpotting Singapore’ became a hub for these picturesque snapshots, receiving an outpouring of appreciation from netizens.
The “supermoon,” a term used to describe the moon when its orbit brings it closest to Earth, was responsible for its exceptionally large and radiant appearance. During these moments, the moon appears significantly larger and brighter than its regular appearance. This mesmerizing phenomenon left onlookers in awe as they marvelled at the sheer size and brilliance of Earth’s celestial companion.
Notably, a Blue Moon does not refer to the moon’s colour but rather to the occurrence of the second full moon within a single calendar month. In August of this year, Singaporeans were fortunate enough to witness not just one but two super moons, with the Blue Moon being the second of the pair.
The next opportunity for Singaporeans to witness such a rare astronomical event may not come until 2037.
As the Blue Moon faded into the night, it left behind a sense of wonder and a collection of awe-inspiring photographs that will continue to be shared and cherished by those who experienced this celestial marvel. Check out some of the stunning photos Singaporeans captured here:
