‘Sturgeon’ supermoon should be visible across Northern Ireland skies tomorrow
Last updated 31st Jul 2023
Tomorrow, Tuesday 1st August, the second full supermoon of the year is expected assuming it’s not cloudy.
The 'Sturgeon' supermoon is set to occur at 7:30pm before rising at 9:23pm BST.
What is a supermoon?
A supermoon is a full moon which appears larger in the sky, because it’s closer to the Earth.
According to NASA; "The Moon will appear full for about three days from Wednesday morning through Saturday morning.
"The planet Saturn will appear near the Moon. Saturn will be near its brightest for the year, which will occur a few days later."
How to watch a supermoon?
Spectators won't need anything other than themselves to enjoy the supermoon, though binoculars may give a good close-up look.
There will be another supermoon during August's second full moon on 31st August.
What will the weather be like this week?
This Evening and Tonight: Bright spells and the odd passing heavy shower in the evening. It will become largely cloudy overnight with patchy rain spreading south, mainly affecting northern counties. Minimum temperature 12 °C.
Tuesday: A cloudy morning with patchy rain then becoming mainly dry and bright in the afternoon. Rain will spread northeast during the evening. Maximum temperature 19 °C.
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday: Breezy with outbreaks of rain on Wednesday morning, perhaps heavy, then becoming drier and brighter. Sunny intervals and showers on Thursday and Friday.
Check out some of the best places to stargaze in Northern Ireland are 👇
Darvagh Forest, Cookstown
Davagh Forest Park is the first place in Northern Ireland to be accredited as an IDA International Dark Sky Park. It is one of only 85 places around the globe to hold this distinction.
Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge site is classified as one of the best places in Northern Ireland for stargazing. Periodically Carrick-a-Rede hosts special star gazing evenings for astronomy fans.
The entire The Antrim coast road offers points where the aurora sometimes makes an impactful show at night.
Mourne Mountains, Newcastle
There's no need to worry about finding a decent spot for your car or struggling with crowds to see the stars. The Mournes offer miles and miles of stunning scenery, hiking trails and nocturnal skies.
This is truly the perfect spot, void of any light pollution, so pitch up a tent and fall asleep staring at the twinkling sky above.
Oxford Island, Craigavon
Nestled on the banks of Lough Neagh sits Oxford Island! Fun fact: the area has hosted BBC Stargazing Live and has been named a top Dark Sky Discovery Site.
Delamont Country Park, Downpatrick
Another tranquil spot, this time situated on the shores of Strangford Lough.
This beautiful 200-acre park hosts monthly events here with the Irish Astro Association. These sessions cater for everyone no matter their experience, and all ages are welcome.
Divis Mountain, Belfast
The closest stargazing spot to Belfast has to be Divis Mountain, that towers over the city 478m high. The views overlooking the capital city are spectacular but cast your eyes to the skies and you'll still have plenty to see.
Th elevation is so high here, towards the top of the mountain sees very little light pollution from the city below.
Benone Beach, Limavady
Stretching from Lough Foyle and Magilligan Point to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, enjoy seven miles of golden sands and unparalleled views across to Donegal. There's something so special gazing at the night sky with the sound of waves in the distance.
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