- #1
pixel01
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This month there are two full moons and the second one is called blue moon. Anyone know why this full moon is called so?
Why is the Second Full Moon This Month Called a Blue Moon?
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In summary, this month there will be two full moons, with the second one being called a blue moon. Blue moons are not part of the regular monthly pattern and occur every 2-3 years due to the extra days in the calendar year. The term "blue moon" has been around for a long time, but the current definition was created by an astronomer in an attempt to clarify the complicated definition in the Farmer's Almanac. There are a few theories as to why it is called a blue moon, as discussed on the Wikipedia page and in an article from CNN. Some lovely music is also provided for those interested in learning more about the blue moon phenomenon.
- #2
tmyer2107
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Blue moons are full moons that aren't timed to the regular monthly pattern. Each calendar year has roughly 11 more days than the lunar year. These days add up until there is an extra full moon that year. It happens every 2-3 years. As for why this was named the Blue moon I'm not too sure.
- #3
Norman
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I was reading somewhere that this current definition of what a "blue moon" is fairly new, though the term has been around for much longer.
I read (if memory serves) that the current definition stems from an attempt by an astronomer writing in an astronomy magazine to summarize and clarify the definition given in the Farmer's Almanac which was, apparently quite obtuse involving the exact date of the beginning of Lent and Easter (or something along those lines).
EDIT: there is a discussion of this on the wiki page for Blue Moons: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_moon
I read (if memory serves) that the current definition stems from an attempt by an astronomer writing in an astronomy magazine to summarize and clarify the definition given in the Farmer's Almanac which was, apparently quite obtuse involving the exact date of the beginning of Lent and Easter (or something along those lines).
EDIT: there is a discussion of this on the wiki page for Blue Moons: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_moon
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- #4
tmyer2107
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Just came across this article that gives a few reasons it might be called a blue moon.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/space/12/30/blue.moon/index.html"
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/space/12/30/blue.moon/index.html"
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- #5
lisab
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Here's some lovely music to listen to as you read the blue moon links 
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4218R-gBmts
.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4218R-gBmts
- #6
waht
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It's moving toward the earth.
FAQ: Why is the Second Full Moon This Month Called a Blue Moon?
Why is the second full moon in a month called a Blue Moon?
The modern definition of a Blue Moon is when a month has two full moons. This only occurs about once every two and a half years. This term originated in the 1940s and was based on a misunderstanding of the traditional definition.
How did the term "Blue Moon" come about?
The term "Blue Moon" has its origins in the Maine Farmer's Almanac in the 1930s, where it referred to the third full moon in a season that had four full moons instead of the usual three. However, in 1946, a writer for Sky & Telescope magazine misinterpreted this definition, leading to the modern usage of the term.
Is the moon actually blue during a Blue Moon?
No, a Blue Moon does not actually appear blue in color. The term refers to the rarity of having two full moons in one month, not the color of the moon itself. However, in certain atmospheric conditions, the moon can appear blue in color due to dust or smoke particles in the air.
How often does a Blue Moon occur?
A Blue Moon occurs approximately once every two and a half years. This is because the lunar cycle is about 29.5 days long, and most months are longer than that, making it rare for two full moons to occur in one month. However, it can happen in February, which is the shortest month of the year.
Is a Blue Moon significant or special in any way?
While a Blue Moon may seem significant due to its rarity, it has no scientific or astronomical significance. It is simply a unique occurrence that has been given a name and has become a part of popular culture. Some people believe that a Blue Moon may have some spiritual or astrological significance, but there is no scientific evidence to support this.