An Even More Super Sequel—Supermoon & Perseids Meteor Shower will Cover Night Sky this Weekend

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A summer filled with many memorable moments, the image of a night sky covered in light may be one for the record books, astronomers assure. In the second installment of the supermoon trilogy that is taking place this summer, this Sunday Aug. 10 will take the record for the next two decades as the largest full moon of the quarter-Century.

(Photo : NASA / Bill Ingalls)

The so-called "extra-supermoon", which will mark the closest orbit the Moon with will have with the Earth in its full phase until 2034, will be a sight to memorialize says a team from NASA. Estimated to appear 16% larger and 30% brighter than normal at moonrise, the extra-supermoon is a rare occasion that will likely follow by a rash stream of photos and comments on social media, as the extra-large moon allows for optical illusions to take place.

With such vivid detail and bright contrast to the night sky, the event will be most noticeable at moonrise when a phenomenon known simply as the "moon illusion" will take place. A trick played on the mind, as a way to mitigate the sensory overload of the magnificent sight, the extra-supermoon will appear unbelievably large against the dark night sky.

"The '[moon] illusion' occurs when the Moon is near the horizon" a team from NASA says. "For reasons not fully understood by astronomers or psychologists, low-hanging Moons look unnaturally large when they beam through trees, buildings and other foreground objects."

So, if you're looking for a magnificent view of the moon, keep in mind that a date-night in the city may be just what you're looking for. But if you're more inclined to be out in the elements, Saturday night will also provide an unbelievable night show.

Back to back with the extra-supermoon, Saturday night's events will feature the long-awaited Perseid meteor shower that will be bright and fast, leaving trails of light in the sky. A rare crowd favorite, known as one of the best meteor showers by NASA and public opinion polls, the Perseid shower will be a sight for sore eyes.

(Photo : NASA)

The Perseids, are a meteor shower that have been a common occurrence and well-documented for almost two millennia now. Associated with the comet "Swift-Tuttle", the shower is quite abundant in debris and lights up the sky, however is most visible in the Northern hemisphere because of the path of the comet. Researchers suggest that although the peak time may vary, the best time to see the showers is when the sky is its clearest, often just before sunrise.

But keep in mind that the next extra-supermoon won't arrive until 2034, so the decision won't be that easy.

As many local hotspots prepare for the weekend's events, keep in mind that while the lights will be spectacular in the hub of the city, light-pollution and skyscrapers may obstruct your view of the astrological landmarks. Whatever your choice, simply wait for the night and look to the skies this weekend, if you're looking for a memorable show.