On A Blue Moon: 1 Sept 2012
On the 31st of August, a phenomenon that is popularly (yet incorrectly) known as a ‘Blue Moon’ was visible. Originally, Blue Moons were defined by the Maine Farmers’ Almanacs of 1819-1962 as the third full moon when four occurred in a season. They named the third ‘Blue’ and not the fourth so that the fourth would retain its name such as the moon Before/After Yule which tells its time of occurrence relative to the equinox or solstice. This definition was replaced by the modern one in 1946 when Sky and Telescope published an article by an amateur astronomer who incorrectly cited the almanac as calling a full moon Blue when it was the second in one month. After Sky and Telescope and several other astronomical radio stations and magazines repeated this claim and referenced the article, the new meaning stuck.
This picture was taken in Nottingham, UK and the photographer slightly enhanced the colors using Photoshop. In the lower left corner of the image, the ray crater Tycho is visible. Its rays are very prominent because it is one of the youngest craters on the near side of the Moon. Also, just to the right of the center, the Sea of Tranquility is visible and even appears blue.
I really enjoyed your explanation of this picture. I was very fascinated about this picture because it gives a unique representation of the moon.The use of Photoshop really enhances the shades of the picture. This also tought me what a Blue moon was and how it looks. Thanks you for posting this picture
ReplyDelete