The Worm Moon Will Dominate the Night Sky Very Soon

The Worm Moon Will Dominate the Night Sky Very Soon
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The Worm Moon is a term used to describe the full Moon that occurs in March. It is called the Worm Moon because it is believed to be the time of the year when the ground begins to thaw and earthworms start to appear, which in turn attracts the return of birds that feed on them. The name Worm Moon is derived from Native American tradition, and it is one of many traditional names given to full moons throughout the year.

The next full Moon, appearing on March 7th, 2023, is known by various names depending on culture and geography. It is called the Crow, Crust, Sap, Sugar, or Worm Moon by Native American tribes, the Lenten, Chaste, or Death Moon by Europeans, and marks the Jewish holiday of Purim and the Hindu festival of Holi. Additionally, it corresponds with Māgha Pūjā for Buddhists, Medin Poya in Sri Lanka, and Mid-Sha’ban for Muslims. It is also known as the Pothole Moon due to its association with the end of winter and the appearance of potholes.

You just need a spot to see a clear night sky

The Worm Moon appears as a full moon in the night sky. It will be visible on Tuesday morning, March 7, 2023, and will appear opposite the Sun in Earth-based longitude at 7:40 AM EST. The Moon will appear full for about three days around this time, from Sunday evening through Wednesday morning (and possibly early Wednesday evening). The appearance of the Worm Moon will depend on weather conditions and the observer’s location.

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The Moon appears full in the night sky approximately once every 29.5 days. This period is known as the synodic month, which is the time it takes for the Moon to return to the same phase (e.g. full to full) as observed from Earth. However, the exact timing of full moon appearances can vary slightly due to the Moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth and the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.

 

 


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Even since he was a child, Cristian was staring curiously at the stars, wondering about the Universe and our place in it. Today he's seeing his dream come true by writing about the latest news in astronomy. Cristian is also glad to be covering health and other science topics, having significant experience in writing about such fields.

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