Don't forget to look up the night sky this weekend!
The Moon has been hitting headlines a lot this week, as the US once again landed on the lunar surface for the first time in more than 50 years.
However, if you're looking for an experience a little more inclusive and closer to home, astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers alike can simply look up this evening to see a rare "micromoon", according to NASA.
February's full moon, affectionately dubbed the 'Snow Moon' will peak this weekend, offering a captivating visual treat in the form of a rare micromoon, the only one of its kind in 2024.
This weekend's celestial marvel, the micromoon, promises a unique experience for skywatchers, shedding light on the Moon's elliptical orbit around Earth. As the lunar orb reaches its apogee - or farthest point from our planet - its size appears slightly diminished, contrasting with the grandeur of the supermoon phenomenon that usually makes headlines.
Unlike its larger counterpart, which occurs during the moon's perigee, the micromoon offers a distinct visual spectacle.
For those eager to witness this celestial spectacle, NASA states that the micromoon will be Saturday morning (February 24) at 7:31AM EST.
The micromoon will appear full for about three days over the weekend. "Sunday morning, February 25, 2024, at 10:00AM EST, the Moon will be at apogee, its farthest from the Earth for this orbit," NASA explains.
For the best views, you're going to want to find an area boasting clear skies and low humidity.
Culturally, full moons hold significant symbolism, signifying change, renewal, and the passage of time. The Snow Moon, named for February's heavy snowfalls, is said to invite renewal and reflection as it illuminates the night sky. Chris Klein of AstroRover tells Parade: "The Snow Moon symbolizes purity, renewal and the transition from winter's introspection to spring's optimism. It invites individuals to reflect, cleanse negative energies and embrace new beginnings."
Per CBS News, February's full moon is also known as the Bald Eagle Moon, Ojibwe Bear Moon, Raccoon Moon, Groundhog Moon, and Goose Moon." Due to the historical trend of food supplied being low at this time of year, the moon has also been referred to as the Month of the Bony Moon and Hungry Moon.
This weekend's micromoon also serves as a prelude to a year filled with celestial wonders.
Skywatchers and stargazers can anticipate an array of astronomical events - including supermoons, solar and lunar eclipses, and meteor showers.
READ MORE: 2024's Solar Eclipse Will Be The Longest And Most Visible For The US In 100 YearsOther celestial events taking place before the end of the month include the bright star Spica being visible below the Moon from February 27 and Mercury being visible from February 28.
But, with February's micromoon illuminating the heavens, let us embrace the opportunity to connect with the cosmos and marvel at the beauty of our celestial surroundings. Or, you can just enjoy seeing the moon looking slightly smaller.
