27-7-2023 (SINGAPORE) Exciting astronomical events are set to grace the skies above Singapore in August, offering stargazers a treat with the appearance of two supermoons and meteor showers. The Science Centre Observatory announced the upcoming celestial wonders on Tuesday (Jul 25), inviting enthusiasts to mark their calendars for the dazzling displays.
The phenomenon of supermoons occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it closest to Earth, resulting in a visually stunning spectacle where the moon appears larger and brighter than usual. Singaporeans will be fortunate enough to witness not one, but two supermoons in the month of August, namely the Sturgeon Moon and Blue Moon. These two supermoons are part of a series of four supermoons occurring in 2023.
The first of the supermoons, the Sturgeon Moon, will grace the skies on Aug 1, 2023. It will be the second closest supermoon to Earth this year, closely following the Blue Moon, as confirmed by the Science Centre Observatory. The moon is expected to rise from the south-east at 7 pm and reach an appreciable height by 9 pm. Stargazers will be able to witness the moon’s ascension until it reaches its zenith at 1 am before setting at 7.25 am on Aug 2.
The much-anticipated Blue Moon will shine its brightest on Aug 31, and it is predicted to be the most luminous and nearest supermoon to Earth for the entire year. With a rise from the east at 7.34 pm, the moon will provide an easily visible sight from 9 pm onwards. The Blue Moon will attain its highest point in the sky at 12.51 am and gracefully set at 7.03 am on Sep 1.
The Science Centre Observatory assures that both supermoons will be visible with ease from any location in Singapore, provided the skies remain clear and unobstructed. Popular open public areas like the Marina Barrage, East Coast Park, and the Southern Ridges are recommended for obtaining a better and elevated view of the celestial marvels. Although specialized equipment is not necessary, the moon’s appearance may vary depending on atmospheric conditions and viewing locations.
In addition to the supermoons, astronomy enthusiasts can anticipate two meteor showers in the coming weeks. The Delta Aquariids meteor shower, occurring as the Earth passes through debris trails of comets and asteroids, will peak on Jul 30 and be most visible after 2 am. However, it is considered a relatively minor event, and few meteors are expected to be seen over Singapore.
On the other hand, the Perseid meteor shower is highly anticipated for its impressive brightness and intensity. Stargazers can look forward to this radiant event, peaking from 4 am on Aug 12 and Aug 13. Known for producing a plethora of vibrant meteors, including fireballs, the Perseids promise a spectacular celestial display.
For the best viewing experience, Ms Gerardyn Brittos, the founder of the Stargazing Singapore hobby group, advises eager stargazers to face the north-east. With or without the moon’s presence, the meteors will shine brightly and are best observed in open areas like parks, beaches, or sky gardens with unobstructed surroundings.
