Normally the moon passes without controversy, but whether or not Sunday's fullmoon should be called a "blue moon" has sparked debate.The controversy stems from the fact that there are actually two definitions ofa "blue moon," according to Spaceweather.com.
Modern folklore states that the second full moon in a calendar month is deemeda "blue moon." Using this definition, the last "blue moon" occurred in December2009, while the next one is not expected until August 2012.
An older definition of "blue moon" is what is creating the controversy. Oldeditions of the Maine Farmer's Almanac defined a "blue moon" as the third offour full moons in an astronomical season (winter, summer, etc.).
Typically, only three full moons are seen each season. Prior to Sunday, therehave already been two full moons this autumn with one more yet to occur in theearly morning hours of December 21 (winter officially begins the evening ofDecember 21).
Using this latter definition, Sunday's full moon should be called a "bluemoon."Story by AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski
