How and when to see tonight's 'extremely rare' blue supermoon visible in Irish skies

Irish stargazers are in for a treat tonight wth an "extremely rare" blue supermoon will be visible throughout Ireland tonight and tomorrow. 

The phenomenon occurs when a full moon is at its closest point in orbit to Earth, therefore appearing even bigger in size.

The moon’s distance from the Earth can vary by 15% which causes a change in brightness of 30% when a full moon happens around the time that the moon is closest to Earth it is called a supermoon, according to Astronomy Ireland. 

To have a blue moon occur at the same time that the full moon is a supermoon is exceedingly rare and won't happen again until 2037 - so those who miss it tonight or tomorrow will have to wait another 8 years for the next super blue moon.

"The best time to watch is at moon rise, which is the same time the sun sets, when a further effect, called 'The Moon Illusion' kicks in which can make the moon 'look' even bigger to the human eye/brain combination," explained David Moore, Editor of Astronomy Ireland magazine.

"Full moons at this time of year are extremely low in the sky which is perfect for photos lining up landmarks, people, events for the whole night! 

“So we especially want people to get creative Monday and Tuesday evenings from sunset on and catch the very rare SuperMoon Blue Moon from Ireland and send their photos in for publication in Astronomy Ireland magazine where they will be archived for all time in the National Libraries of both Ireland and Great Britain, as well as being shared with thousands of Irish readers across the island!" said Mr Moore.