On Thursday, skywatchers across India were treated to an extraordinary sight as the “Supermoon” illuminated the night sky during the auspicious Sharad Poornima festival. This rare celestial event brought awe and excitement as the full moon, at its closest approach to Earth, appeared larger and brighter than usual.
Sharad Poornima, a festival celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin, coincided perfectly with the “Supermoon” phenomenon, amplifying the significance of the night. Astronomy enthusiasts eagerly set up telescopes and cameras, determined to capture the brilliance of Earth’s only natural satellite.
According to NASA, a “Supermoon” occurs when a full moon aligns with the moon’s perigee – the point in its orbit where it is closest to Earth, approximately 363,300 km away. This proximity causes the moon to appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is furthest from Earth. Although the term “Supermoon” isn’t officially recognized in scientific circles, it has become popular for describing such close full moons.
This dazzling lunar show occurs just three to four times a year, but the spectacle is always a must-see. Onlookers from across the country marveled at the moon’s radiant beauty, with its glow heightened by the festival’s significance.
As if the visual display wasn’t enough, higher tides were also reported, a natural side-effect of the moon’s proximity to Earth.
With Sharad Poornima’s spiritual significance and the Supermoon’s astronomical rarity, it was a night to remember for skywatchers and devotees alike.
