Rare Blue Moon to Glow in Sky Friday Night

By ETHAN LEVINE (Patch Staff)

There’s a “blue moon” in the local Friday night forecast, but those expecting the moon to turn color might be disappointed.

A blue moon is actually when a full moon occurs twice in a month, something that only happens about once every two or three years, according to WTOP.

A complete moon cycle—from a new moon all the way out to a full moon and back to a new moon once again—usually takes about 29 days, meaning the calendar has to line up just right for one month to include two full moons.

And if you ever wondered where the phrase “once in a blue moon” comes from, now you know.

Unfortunately, the phrase does not mean the moon will actually turn blue. Still, it’s a rare celestial phenomenon to experience two full moons in the same calendar month.

Those looking to go somewhere special for the event may want to check out the Maryland Science Center, which opens the observatory on its roof to the public every Friday night, weather permitting. Call 410-545-2999 for information about the observatory’s hours.

See the Anne Arundel County forecast here.

»What’s your favorite spot in the area to check out the moon and stars? Tell us in the comments!

Patch file photo