Bangkok: After the candlelit procession is over, don't forget to look up at the sky! On the night of May 31, 2069, a unique celestial event will unfold as a "Micro Blue Moon" graces the night sky. This event marks the second full moon of the month, occurring when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth this year.

According to Thai News Agency, although the moon will appear slightly smaller due to its distance, its beauty remains undiminished. It's important to note that the term "Blue Moon" does not imply a change in color; the moon will still emit its usual soft and gentle glow, offering a romantic spectacle for sky gazers. The last occurrence of a Micro Blue Moon was recorded on October 31, 2020.

On May 31, 2026, coinciding with Visakha Bucha Day, the Micro Full Moon will occur at approximately 3:00 PM, at a distance of about 406,127 kilometers from Earth. This event also marks the second full moon within the month, categorizing it as a Blue Moon. Collectively, these phenomena are referred to as a "Micro Blue Moon."

The moon's elliptical orbit around Earth takes approximately 27.3 days to complete, creating periods when it is either closest (perigee) or farthest (apogee) from Earth. When these periods coincide with a full moon, they are termed "Super Full Moon" and "Micro Full Moon," respectively.

A "Blue Moon" signifies the rare occurrence of two full moons within a single month, happening approximately every 2.7 years. This rarity is encapsulated in the English idiom "Once in a blue moon," emphasizing its infrequency. The lunar phase period of about 29.5 days allows for this phenomenon in months with 31 days.

Looking ahead, a "Super Blue Moon" is projected to occur on March 30, 2029, featuring the closest and farthest full moon to Earth in that year. For more updates on astronomical events, follow the NARIT (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand) Facebook page.