When was the last super blood blue moon? The answer is kinda crazy

The day has finally arrived. This morning, January 31st, we were able to see a super blood blue moon in the pre-dawn sky. Today’s moon has such a long title because it’s a big freakin’ deal! According to Space.com, this is the first super blood blue moon the United States has seen since 1866.

So why does this moon have so many names? First of all, today’s full moon is the second full moon in January. When one month has two full moons, the second one is called a “blue moon.” This year, we’ll see two blue moons — today’s and another one in March. Due to the lunar cycle, blue moons usually occur every 2.7 years, so we’re lucky to see two in one year.

Secondly, tonight’s full moon is a categorized as a supermoon. According to Space.com, a supermoon occurs when the moon comes closest to Earth in its monthly orbit while in its full phase. It appears larger and brighter, although it’s sometimes difficult for the naked eye to discern the difference between a regular full moon and a supermoon.

Finally, today’s moon is also a Blood Moon, thanks to the lunar eclipse that was visible in the United States early this morning. When the moon passes through Earth’s shadow, it takes on a blood-red tint, hence the name “Blood Moon.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrydklNpcFI?feature=oembed

Check out these photos from those who caught a glimpse of the super blood blue moon this morning:

Although the lunar eclipse has passed, the appearance of the moon tonight will still be a glorious sight. With this being the first time in over 150 years that these three lunar phenomenons are occurring at once, the super blood blue moon is not something you’ll want to miss.

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