A ‘super blood moon’ is coming May 26. Here’s how to get the best view

If you look out your window on May 26, the moon might appear extra bright. That’s because it’s something called a “supermoon.”

A supermoon is when the moon appears brighter and larger than usual because of where it is compared to Earth.

Two special things must happen at the same time for there to be a supermoon.

First, there must be a full moon.

Second, the moon must also be at its closest point to Earth, according to NASA.

Because both the moon and Earth move on a round orbit, the moon appears slightly smaller or larger to us throughout the year.

May 26 will be your last chance to see a supermoon for a while. It is the last of two supermoons in 2021, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The first one was April 26.

How can I see it?

All you need to see a supermoon is your own two eyes.

NASA recommends going somewhere with a view to the west that is clear of any trees or buildings, including beaches or an open field.

While the supermoon occurs officially during early Wednesday morning, NASA says it will “appear full” from Monday evening until Thursday morning.

What’s special about the May 26 supermoon?

There also will be a lunar eclipse — or what many people call a “blood moon” — at the same time as the supermoon, leading to a “super blood moon.”

A lunar eclipse is when Earth blocks the Sun from the moon. The moon picks up a reddish color from the shadow of Earth.

NASA said the eclipse will be “at least partly visible” for anyone on the half of the planet that is in the dark. However, people in the Western United States will have a better view.

For people looking to the sky from the United States, the super blood moon will happen early Wednesday morning before the sun rises.

Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is safe to view without any eye protection.

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