Once in a Blue Moon

Have you ever heard of the expression ~ Once in a Blue Moon?

Partygoers ringing in 2010 will be treated to a so-called New Year’s Eve Blue Moon. But don't expect it to be blue ~ the name has nothing to do with the color of our closest celestial neighbor.

A full moon occurred on December 2nd and it is going to appear tonight in time for the New Year's countdown. This New Year's Eve full moon is what's known as a Blue Moon, because it's the second full moon in a month. On average, Blue Moons occur about once every two and a half years, which is the origin of the saying ~ Once in a Blue Moon.

The last time there was a lunar double take was in May 2007. New Year's Eve Blue Moons are rare, occurring every 19 years. The last time was in 1990; the next one won't come again until 2028.

Historically, each full moon throughout the year was given a folk name to help people remember to prepare for the upcoming season. The 'Harvest Moon' is the full moon that occurred closest to the autumn equinox. It occurred at the peak of harvest and the light of the full moon allowed farmers to work late into the night.

If you can't stay up to watch the New Year come in, go out and take a peek at the Blue Moon.

Happy New Year