Blue Moons: Explanation, History, and When They Come to San Antonio

The phrase “once in a blue moon” is something you’ve likely heard, but what exactly is a blue moon? Despite its name, a blue moon isn’t actually blue. Instead, it refers to a rare and special event in our lunar calendar. Let’s dive into what blue moons are, their history, and when you can expect to see one in San Antonio—so you don’t miss out because of a car problem!

What Is a Blue Moon?

A blue moon is the term used to describe the second full moon that occurs in a single calendar month. Normally, each month only has one full moon, but because the lunar cycle is about 29.5 days, occasionally, a month will have two full moons. The second one is called a blue moon. This phenomenon typically happens once every two to three years, making it a rare occurrence—hence the saying, “once in a blue moon.”

It’s important to note that the moon doesn’t actually turn blue during a blue moon. The name is more about its rarity than its color. However, there have been times when the moon appeared blue due to atmospheric conditions, like after a volcanic eruption or during a forest fire when particles in the air scatter light in such a way that the moon takes on a bluish hue.

The History of Blue Moons

The concept of the blue moon has been around for centuries, but the modern understanding of it as the second full moon in a month is relatively recent. The term was popularized by a misinterpretation in a 1946 issue of Sky & Telescope magazine, which mistakenly described the second full moon in a month as a blue moon. This definition stuck, and it’s the one most people use today.

In folklore, blue moons have been associated with various myths and superstitions, often seen as a time of great change or rare opportunities. While we may not believe in the superstitions anymore, the rarity of a blue moon still captures our imagination.

When Will Blue Moons Come to San Antonio?

If you’re in San Antonio and looking to catch the next blue moon, you’re in luck—these events are predictable! The next blue moon visible in San Antonio is expected on August 30, 2023. Mark your calendar, because after that, the next one won’t be until May 31, 2026.

To fully enjoy this celestial event, you’ll want to be in a spot with a clear view of the sky. Whether you’re driving out to a less light-polluted area or just heading to a local park, make sure your vehicle is in top condition. You wouldn’t want to miss the blue moon because of an unexpected car breakdown!

Don’t Miss the Blue Moon Because of Car Trouble

To ensure you don’t miss out on the blue moon—or any other special event—because of car troubles, it’s essential to keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular maintenance can help prevent those inconvenient breakdowns that always seem to happen at the worst possible times.

At Eurasian Auto Repair, we specialize in keeping your car in top shape so you can enjoy all that San Antonio has to offer, including those rare blue moons. From routine inspections to more complex repairs, our expert technicians are here to help, making sure your vehicle is reliable when you need it most.

Trust Eurasian Auto Repair

Don’t let car troubles keep you from enjoying the wonders of the night sky. Visit Eurasian Auto Repair for all your car repair needs, and drive with confidence knowing that your vehicle is ready for whatever adventure you have planned. Whether it’s a blue moon or just a drive through the Hill Country, we’re your trusted dealer alternative in San Antonio.

Mark your calendar for the next blue moon, and make sure your car is ready to take you wherever you need to go. See you under the stars, San Antonio!