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Final super moon of the year illuminates Metro Vancouver skies this week

‘Full Super Worm Moon’ a reference to time of year it occurs
Coinciding with spring equinox, the Full Super Worm Moon will fill Vancouver skies March 20. Photo i
Coinciding with spring equinox, the Full Super Worm Moon will fill Vancouver skies March 20. Photo iStock

Vancouverites were privy to a full Super Wolf Moon in January, and now they have one last chance to view a super moon this year — the Full Super Worm Moon.

The month’s full moon gets its wormy name from the time of year it takes place. Since the full moon coincides with the spring equinox on Wednesday, March 20, the name reflects the changing of the season. Specifically, the name refers to the time when birds begin to feast on earthworms that are pushing their way through the spring soil.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac describes how “roots start to push their way up through the soil, and the earth experiences a rebirth as it awakens from its winter slumber.” It also mentions the moon is sometimes referred to as the Full Sap Moon, because of the time of year when maple syrup begins to flow.

Not only does the Worm Moon qualify as a super moon – meaning it will look 15 per cent brighter and seven per cent bigger than a regular full moon due to its proximity to earth — but it is the final of the three super moons this year.

Stargazers should travel as far away from city lights as possible in order to avoid light pollution that will obscure the clarity of heavenly bodies. While this works best the in more remote places, anywhere that has a higher elevation will also provide more ideal viewing conditions.

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