Around each new moon (left) and full moon (right) – when the sun, Earth, and moon are located more or less on a line in space – the range between high and low tides is greatest. These are called spring tides. A supermoon – new or full moon at its closest to Earth – accentuates these tides. Image via physicalgeography.net.
We had 3 full supermoons (close full moons) earlier this year. Now we're having 3 new supermoons (close new moons). The dates are August 1 and 30, plus September 28. And, Friday's supermoon will be the closest of this year. Read more.
Unless they pass directly in front of the sun, causing a solar eclipse, new moons generally can't be seen. They cross the sky with the sun during the day. Read more. The next new moon happens tomorrow (August 30) at 10:37 UTC; translate UTC to your time.
According to a new study by astronomers based on data from the Kepler Space Telescope, 1 in 4 sun-like stars should have a planet that's approximately Earth-sized, orbiting in the star's habitable zone. Read more.
A sign of the changing season, Sirius - the sky's brightest star - is visible before sunup. You'll know it's Sirius if the very noticeable 3 stars in Orion's Belt point to it. Read more.
