Forget about “once in a blue moon” or harvest moon. It will be a Snow Moon that plays the lead in tonight’s celestial, triple feature.
A regular, old full moon might not be much to look at but, call it a Snow Moon and you will sound like someone who actually paid attention during Earth Science or Astronomy class. Nothing technical or scientific, a Snow Moon is just the traditional name for the full moon that occurs in February because it is a time for snow and cold air temperatures.
And if that isn’t reason enough to take a break from Friday night’s festivities, try talking about a Full Snow Moon Penumbral Eclipse. In other words, the moon is hiding behind the Earth’s shadow. Watch as the moon gradually fades from the left side and then is bathed in the Earth’s penumbral shadow.
But wait! There is more! Comet 45P will make a pre-dawn appearance. Like a late-night partier, Comet 45P will take a preverbal, “walk of shame” around 5:00 am on Saturday morning. What does our little green comet have to be ashamed of? One could speculate but, I am going with the bad name abbreviation. Can you imagine how many people have butchered 45P/Honda–Mrkos–Pajdušáková? Doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue.
So, reward yourself skywatchers and stare up wonderingly at the night sky for a stunning light show direct from the universe.
