Friday marks the end of August, the start of the Labor Day weekend and the appearance of a blue moon for the last time until 2015.
When you look up at the sky Friday night you won’t actually see a moon that is blue in color but instead a full moon. It is called a “blue moon” because it is the second full moon in a month, according to EarthSky, which mentions other definitions of the term.
“It’s very rare that you would see a blue-colored moon, although unusual sky conditions – certain-sized particles of dust or smoke – can create them,” EarthSky notes.
So maybe you won’t see a blue-colored moon Friday, but a full moon can still be quite stunning and gazing at one is a pretty nice way to end the summer, especially with the warm weather we’ve been having.
And what better way to pay tribute to ?
Where to Watch the Blue Moon
According to the Dark Sky Finder website, Sierra Madre is located right along the edge of the higher light pollution area created by the dense population of the metro Los Angeles area.
That means that while light pollution may be a problem when it comes to viewing items in the sky, the nearby San Gabriel Mountains mean Sierra Madre residents have some of the best chances for good celestial viewing in the Los Angeles area.
Some areas, such as Sierra Madre Canyon, have less streetlights than other areas of town. Though, the surrounding mountains can block some viewing angles.
Areas such as and will surely offer good viewing conditions, though local moongazers should check park hours before entering.
Are you planning to watch the "blue moon"? Where's a good spot in Sierra Madre for moon gazing?
Reza Gostar also contributed to this piece.
