The Blue Moon Phenomenon and Its Resonances in Portland, Oregon

May 27, 2025

The Blue Moon Phenomenon and Its Resonances in Portland, Oregon

I. Introduction: The Enigma and Allure of the Blue Moon

The celestial body known as the moon has, throughout human history, served as a profound source of wonder, inspiring countless narratives, artistic expressions, and scientific investigations. The evocative phrase "once in a blue moon" conjures images of rarity and an almost magical occurrence, deeply embedded in cultural lexicon. This report endeavors to clarify the various interpretations of the "blue moon," explore the rich visual themes that define its aesthetic, and provide comprehensive, actionable guidance for individuals seeking to capture its essence through photography. The analysis will then narrow its focus to Portland, Oregon, uncovering the city's unique connections to the "Blue Moon" concept, from local businesses that bear the name to vibrant astronomy and photography communities that thrive within the city and its surrounding areas.

II. Understanding the "Blue Moon": Fact, Folklore, and Visual Identity

Astronomical vs. Calendrical Definitions: Clarifying What a "Blue Moon" Truly Is

The term "blue moon" is frequently subject to widespread misunderstanding due to its dual meanings, one rooted in rare atmospheric optics and the other in calendrical cycles. From an astronomical standpoint, a moon that genuinely appears blue is an exceptionally rare and unpredictable atmospheric phenomenon.

This striking visual effect occurs when specific atmospheric conditions, such as the presence of fine particles—like oily droplets from large forest fires or volcanic ash—of a precise size (approximately 1 micrometer in diameter), preferentially scatter red and yellow light. This selective scattering allows blue light to pass through to the observer, creating the distinct blue hue.

This literal optical event is the origin of the saying "once in a blue moon," signifying its infrequent and unpredictable nature.

Historical accounts corroborate such occurrences, for instance, after the 1883 Krakatoa eruption, which led to months of "blue, green, and other coloured appearances of the sun and moon." Similarly, blue moons were observed following forest fires in Sweden and Canada in the early 1950s.

In contrast, the more commonly referenced calendrical "blue moon" bears no relation to the moon's actual color. This definition refers to the presence of a second full moon within a single calendar month, or, less commonly, the third full moon in a season that contains four.

This interpretation gained widespread popularity after an amateur astronomer, James Hugh Pruett, misinterpreted an article in 1946, leading to what is now considered "modern American folklore" rather than a traditional or Native American lunar concept.

Unlike the atmospheric phenomenon, a calendrical blue moon is predictable and relatively common, occurring approximately seven times every 19 years.

The distinction between these definitions is fundamental, particularly for those interested in capturing lunar phenomena through photography. The most prevalent public understanding of a "blue moon" (the calendrical definition) does not inherently involve a blue color. This highlights a significant public misconception that could lead to misdirected photographic efforts. For photographers, this clarification is paramount: while a calendrical blue moon offers a scheduled opportunity to photograph a full moon, capturing a truly blue-hued moon is contingent upon highly unusual and unpredictable atmospheric conditions. This understanding is crucial for managing expectations and directing photographic endeavors effectively.

The "Blue Moon" Aesthetic: Exploring Common Visual Themes, Imagery, and Atmospheric Conditions

The "blue moon aesthetic" extends beyond the literal blue hue of the moon, encompassing a broader spectrum of visual themes, moods, and imagery associated with the night sky, celestial bodies, and serene, often mysterious, blue-toned landscapes. It represents a visual language that evokes tranquility, wonder, and, at times, a touch of melancholy.

Common visual themes and imagery associated with this aesthetic include:

Night Scenes: Depictions of the night sea, moonlit skies, nocturnal landscapes, dark moons, and general night-time settings, frequently rendered with deep blue or purple hues. This color palette contributes to a calming and engaging atmosphere.
Celestial Elements: The moon itself, in various phases (including full moon, moonlight), stars, distant galaxies, nebulae, and even eclipses, often presented with a sense of vastness and cosmic wonder. Images may feature "4k moon" details, emphasizing high resolution.
Natural Landscapes: Elements such as mountains, shorelines, forests (e.g., forest night, forest trees, forest landscape), icebergs, arctic scenes, ocean water, deserts (e.g., desert sand, desert sky, dune), and expansive panoramas. These natural features frequently serve as a compelling foreground or backdrop to the moon.
Abstract and Artistic Interpretations: The aesthetic can also be expressed through abstract imagery, such as "blue moon jellyfish ocean background" designs , illustrations, oil textures, background paint, and abstract brushstrokes. Concepts like montage, holding, and collage also appear within the aesthetic's visual vocabulary.

The actual phenomenon of a moon appearing blue, as previously noted, is due to atmospheric scattering. This requires the presence of particles in the atmosphere that are slightly wider than the wavelength of red light (approximately 0.7 micrometers), with an absence of other particle sizes.

Conversely, if atmospheric particles are predominantly smaller than 1 micrometer, they tend to scatter blue light, leading to the more common "red moon" phenomenon.

The extensive range of associated imagery demonstrates that the "aesthetic" is a much wider artistic concept than the rare atmospheric occurrence. It encompasses a mood, a color palette, and thematic elements (night, cosmos, mystery, serenity) that can be evoked without the moon itself being physically blue. This provides significant creative latitude for photographers. They are not limited to waiting for the rare atmospheric blue moon; instead, they can achieve the "blue moon aesthetic" through deliberate artistic choices in composition, color grading (e.g., deep blue hues), and thematic elements in their night sky, landscape, or even abstract photography. This broadens the scope of photographic opportunities significantly, allowing for diverse artistic expressions of the "blue moon" concept.

III. Mastering Lunar Photography: A Comprehensive Guide

Capturing the moon's ethereal beauty and intricate details requires specific equipment and precise camera settings. Modern advancements in photographic technology and post-processing techniques have made high-quality lunar and astrophotography more accessible than ever.

Essential Equipment: Cameras, Lenses, Tripods, Remote Releases, and Filters

For capturing the moon's intricate details, a DSLR or mirrorless camera serves as an excellent foundation.

As a photographer's skills evolve, specialized astronomy cameras can be employed to create larger, more detailed mosaics of the lunar surface.

Lenses: A telephoto lens is indispensable for achieving close-up shots of the moon, allowing for significant magnification of its features. For wider astrophotography, such as capturing the Milky Way or incorporating expansive landscapes, wide-angle lenses are more appropriate. It is often observed that lenses yield sharper results when "stopped down" one or two steps from their widest aperture.
Tripod: A sturdy tripod is an absolute necessity. It is critical for maintaining perfect stillness during long exposures, which is essential for sharp images, particularly when using telephoto lenses that magnify even the slightest camera movement. A tripod equipped with a ball head offers greater flexibility for pointing the camera skyward.
Remote Shutter Release: To completely eliminate camera shake caused by physically pressing the shutter button, a remote shutter release cable or utilizing the camera's built-in 2- or 10-second delay drive mode is highly recommended. This ensures a sharper image, free from motion blur.
Filters: Narrow-band filters represent a significant advancement for urban astrophotography. These specialized filters enable photographers to cut through light pollution emanating from city lights and even the bright moon itself, revealing fainter celestial objects like nebulae and galaxies. Light pollution filters, such as the Optolong L-Pro, are specifically recommended for use with stock DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Polarizing filters can also be a valuable addition for certain conditions.
Star Tracker Mount: For those venturing into more advanced astrophotography, a star tracker mount is transformative. It precisely compensates for the Earth's rotation, allowing for significantly longer exposures without the appearance of star trails, resulting in pinpoint stars.

The presence of photographers explicitly capturing nebulae and galaxies from their Portland backyards and neighborhoods

directly challenges the conventional wisdom that astrophotography demands remote, dark-sky locations. The repeated mention of narrow-band filters as a key enabling technology

provides the causal link for this urban accessibility. This indicates that astrophotography, including capturing the moon and even deep-sky objects, is surprisingly accessible to residents of Portland. Photographers do not necessarily need to travel to remote, dark-sky locations for all types of celestial imaging, particularly if they are equipped with specialized filters or focusing on brighter subjects like the moon. This significantly broadens participation in the hobby.

Optimal Camera Settings: Aperture, ISO, Exposure Length, White Balance, and Manual Focus Techniques

Achieving sharp and well-exposed lunar photographs requires careful adjustment of camera settings:

Mode: For maximum control over your exposure, always set your camera to manual (M) or bulb (B) mode.
Aperture: While a "fast" aperture of F/2.8 – F/4 is generally recommended for collecting ample light in astrophotography , for close-up lunar shots, a slightly smaller aperture around f/6.6 can be a good starting point to ensure sharpness across the moon's surface. Stopping down the lens slightly from its widest aperture can often improve overall sharpness, especially at the edges of the frame.
ISO: To minimize digital noise, especially for bright subjects like the moon, begin with a low ISO setting, such as 80 or 100. For general astrophotography where fainter objects are targeted, an ISO range of 400-1600 (or higher) is common, balancing light collection with noise production. If a tripod is unavailable, boosting the ISO to 400 or more can allow for a shorter exposure, preventing blur from camera shake, though this comes at the cost of increased noise.
Exposure Length: For general astrophotography, exposures typically range from 15 to 30 seconds. However, the moon is exceptionally bright. For close-up lunar photography, much shorter exposures are required to prevent overexposure and retain detail. A good starting point for a near-full moon is around 1/100 second, which can then be adjusted based on the specific lighting conditions. The "500 rule" can be used as a guideline for determining the maximum exposure time before stars begin to trail in wide-field shots.
White Balance: Set your white balance to daylight or auto. If shooting in RAW image format, white balance can be precisely adjusted later during post-processing without loss of quality.
Focus: Manual focus (MF) is crucial for astrophotography, as autofocus systems struggle with the dim and distant nature of celestial objects. To achieve pinpoint sharpness, engage your camera's "live-view" mode, zoom in (typically 5X then 10X magnification) on the brightest star in the sky or the moon itself, and meticulously adjust the lens's focus ring until the star appears as a tiny, sharp pinpoint of light. Relying on the infinity mark on your lens barrel can be unreliable, as it is often mis-calibrated.

Best Practices for Stunning Shots: Tips for Minimizing Shake, Bracketing Exposures, and Incorporating Compelling Foregrounds

Minimize Camera Shake: Reiterate the importance of a sturdy tripod and using a remote shutter release or the camera's self-timer. Even the slightest movement can result in a blurry image, a problem compounded by the magnification of telephoto lenses.
Bracket Your Shots: This technique involves taking multiple photographs of the same scene with slightly varied exposure settings (e.g., different exposure lengths, apertures, or ISOs). This significantly increases the chances of capturing an image with optimal exposure and detail, especially when dealing with the high contrast of a bright moon against a dark sky.
Incorporate a Compelling Foreground: For wide-angle astrophotography that includes the moon, integrating an interesting foreground element (such as cityscapes, architectural landmarks, trees, or natural landscapes) can dramatically enhance the composition and visual narrative of your photograph. Since the moon's apparent movement is relatively slow, there is time to carefully compose the shot and frame it with the chosen foreground.
Post-Processing: Image editing is an indispensable final step in astrophotography. Begin by cropping out any unnecessary dark background, then manually adjust brightness and contrast to bring out details. Judicious application of sharpening, such as using the "unsharp mask" in software like Photoshop, can further enhance clarity. For deep-sky astrophotography, stacking multiple long-exposure images together is a powerful technique that improves the signal-to-noise ratio and reveals significantly more detail than a single shot.
Monitor Histogram: Regularly check the camera's histogram during shooting to ensure that data is not "clipped" (meaning areas are pure black or pure white with no detail). The aim is to keep the pixel information in the middle or slightly to the right of the histogram graph for optimal data capture.
Experimentation: While these guidelines provide a solid foundation, astrophotography is also about experimentation. Do not hesitate to tweak settings and try different approaches to discover what works best with specific equipment and under varying conditions.

Modern astrophotography, particularly in urban settings, is not solely about the initial capture. The critical role of computational processes, such as stacking multiple exposures and utilizing specialized filters, to achieve high-quality images

indicates that proficiency in post-processing software is as vital as in-field camera skills. This fundamentally shifts the skill set required for excellence in this genre, making software knowledge as important as hardware operation.

Table: Recommended Camera Settings for Lunar Photography

Setting Category	General Astrophotography Recommendation	Specific Lunar Photography Recommendation (Close-up)	Key Consideration/Tip
Mode	Manual (M) or Bulb (B)	Manual (M) or Bulb (B)	Essential for full control over exposure.

IV. Portland's "Blue Moon" Tapestry: Local Connections and Cultural Hubs

The phrase "blue moon" in Portland, Oregon, refers to more than just celestial events; it is deeply woven into the city's cultural fabric, identifying two distinct and beloved local establishments.

Blue Moon Camera & Machine: An Iconic Establishment

Located at 8417 N Lombard Street in Portland, Oregon, Blue Moon Camera & Machine is far more than a retail store; it is a revered institution for photographers, especially those dedicated to vintage film cameras and analog processes.

It has earned a reputation as a "veritable museum of vintage film cameras" and is notably home to one of the world's last remaining optical printing labs, underscoring its unique position in the photographic world.

Services Offered: Blue Moon Camera & Machine provides a comprehensive suite of services catering to the analog photography community:

Equipment Sales: Their inventory boasts a wide selection of vintage film cameras (including 35mm, instant cameras like Fuji Instax and Polaroid), various machines (even typewriters), lenses, and a plethora of camera system accessories.
Film and Supplies: They are a crucial source for a diverse range of film stocks and darkroom equipment and supplies, supporting the entire analog workflow.
Photo Lab Services: This is a cornerstone of their operation. They offer developing, scanning, and both analog and digital printing services for an extensive array of film formats, including 35mm, 120/620, Minox spy film, large format (4x5, 5x7, 8x10 sheets), ULF format, and even motion picture films. Detailed pricing for these services is readily available.
Film Mailing Services: For out-of-town customers or convenience, they provide a system for mailing film to them for processing.
Selling/Consigning Gear: They offer options for customers to sell or consign their unwanted camera gear, fostering a circular economy for photographic equipment.

Cultural Significance: Blue Moon Camera & Machine holds profound cultural significance within Portland and the broader photography world:

Preservation of Analog Photography: The establishment is a vital force in "saving medium format" and other film photography formats. Their deep investment in the future of 120 film, for instance, highlights their commitment to keeping analog traditions alive.
Community and Education: Beyond commercial transactions, they are driven by a "deeply-held passion for the art, craft and science of film photography," emphasizing education and a genuine enthusiasm for film camera history and trivia. Their website features an "International Camera Museum" and a "Codex" (blog) offering insightful essays, film reviews, technical discussions, and artist interviews.
Customer Engagement: They actively engage their community through initiatives like "Customer Show" galleries, which showcase outstanding images created by their patrons through everyday orders, celebrating "incidental art". They also foster connection through a dedicated Discord community.
Local Impact and Longevity: Highly regarded by the local analog community for their friendly and knowledgeable staff, Blue Moon Camera & Machine has been a consistent presence for decades, impressively surviving and thriving even before the resurgence of film photography in the digital age. Other local darkrooms, like Franklin Foto, even refer customers to Blue Moon Camera for film processing, underscoring their central role.

The presence of this establishment, encompassing a museum, a processing lab, and a vibrant community hub

, signifies its role as a cultural anchor for analog photography. Its enduring focus on film photography and its survival and growth in an increasingly digital world

demonstrate a profound cultural significance that extends far beyond simple commerce. The fact that other local businesses direct customers to them for film processing

further solidifies their central, almost indispensable, role in Portland's analog photography ecosystem. For photographers in Portland, Blue Moon Camera & Machine offers a unique and tangible connection to the history, craft, and community of analog photography. This provides a distinct alternative or complement to the digitally focused aspects of astrophotography, catering to different artistic and technical preferences within the broader photographic landscape.

Blue Moon Tavern & Grill: A Beloved Local Pub

The Blue Moon Tavern & Grill, situated at 432 NW 21st, Portland, OR 97209, is a comfortable and inviting pub nestled in Portland's bustling Northwest neighborhood.

Its interior is characterized by Art Deco-style light fixtures, a distinctive 12-foot neon sign resembling a pagoda roof, and an array of eclectic artwork, all contributing to an ambiance that encourages lively conversation.

History: The site upon which the Blue Moon Tavern & Grill stands boasts a remarkably rich history, stretching back over 150 years. It was initially settled in the late 1860s by Andrew and Sarah Johnston, former slaves from Kentucky, making them among Portland's first Black homeowners.

Over the decades, the space housed various businesses, including groceries and variety stores, before becoming "The Moon" tavern in 1973.

It evolved through several iterations, serving as a popular live music venue in the 1970s and early 1980s, and even a "raucous, hardcore biker bar" known as "Good Time Charlie's".

In 1985, McMenamins reopened it as the Blue Moon, making it one of their fifth pubs and among the first to serve their handcrafted ales.

This long and varied history contributes significantly to its unique identity and sentimental value within the community.

Offerings: The Blue Moon Tavern & Grill provides a classic pub experience with a local twist:

Food & Drink: They serve Northwest-style pub fare, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local and regional growers and producers. Their pizza and soups are house-made, and seasonal specials are regularly featured. For dietary needs, locally made gluten-free buns are available for hamburgers and sandwiches, though the kitchen itself is not certified gluten-free. The beverage menu includes McMenamins' signature handcrafted ales, wines, ciders, and spirits.
Entertainment: Patrons can enjoy two 22-foot shuffleboard tables, pool tables, and pinball machines. Sports games are shown on a big screen in the game area, often accompanied by jello shots during events.
Amenities: Complimentary WiFi is available, and the tavern offers pet-friendly sidewalk and outdoor patio seating. Bicycle parking is provided outside.
Hours: The tavern operates Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 1 am. Happy Hour is offered daily from 2-5 pm and again from 10 pm to midnight.
Ordering: Orders can be placed for pickup by calling (503) 223-3184, or for delivery via Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Group Visits: While walk-ins are welcome for groups, calling in advance is recommended to ensure readiness.

Cultural Significance: The Blue Moon Tavern & Grill is widely regarded as a "destination for Portlanders and visitors alike," serving as a local landmark that encapsulates the vibrant and eclectic spirit of its Northwest neighborhood.

Its deep historical roots, encompassing diverse community phases from early settlement to a popular music and biker venue, underscore its role as a living testament to Portland's evolving social and cultural landscape. It is a place where history, community, and local flavor converge.

Neither of these businesses is directly related to the astronomical "blue moon" phenomenon. Instead, the name "Blue Moon" appears to function as a local cultural identifier, associated with established, community-centric businesses in Portland. The tavern's history specifically details its evolution from "The Moon" to "Silver Moon" and finally "Blue Moon" under McMenamins, indicating a brand identity and a nod to its past rather than a celestial connection.

For someone seeking "blue moon Portland," they are likely seeking these specific, well-known local establishments rather than astronomical events. It is important to clearly differentiate these local businesses from the celestial concept, while still acknowledging their shared name and exploring the rich history and community roles they play within the city.

V. Connecting with the Cosmos in Portland: Astronomy and Photography Communities

Portland offers a surprisingly robust landscape for those interested in astronomy and night sky photography, supported by dedicated individuals, clubs, and educational opportunities.

Local Astrophotography Scene: Examples and Insights

Portland boasts an active and innovative astrophotography scene, with local enthusiasts successfully capturing breathtaking cosmic wonders even from within the city's light-polluted environments.

Josh Romberg (Southeast Portland): An exemplary astrophotographer who operates from his backyard in Southeast Portland. He utilizes a sophisticated setup, including a 4-foot telescope and specialized narrow-band filters, to image deep-space objects such as the North America Nebula. Romberg emphasizes the effectiveness of narrow-band filters in cutting through significant light pollution from both city lights and the moon, making backyard astrophotography a viable and rewarding pursuit.
Nico Ferguson (St. Johns, North Portland): A young, innovative photographer who, at 15, employs a compact, iPad-sized "smart telescope" (which integrates a telescope, camera, and auto-tracker) to photograph celestial bodies like the Andromeda Galaxy from his North Portland neighborhood. His work exemplifies the "automation revolution" in astrophotography, where complex image stacking processes are now handled automatically by software, making the hobby more accessible.
Grant Tandy (Central Oregon, near Mount Bachelor): While not strictly within Portland, Tandy represents another facet of Oregon's astrophotography community. He specializes in wide-field time-lapse photography, artfully showcasing the night sky's apparent movement against dramatic natural landscapes. His approach is characterized by minimal equipment (primarily a camera and tripod) but demands considerable patience, as he captures hundreds of images for later stacking into mesmerizing visualizations. He has successfully captured the Milky Way core positioned against Mount Bachelor.

The presence of photographers like Josh Romberg and Nico Ferguson explicitly capturing nebulae and galaxies from their Portland backyards and neighborhoods

directly challenges the conventional wisdom that astrophotography demands remote, dark-sky locations. The repeated mention of narrow-band filters as a key enabling technology

provides the causal link for this urban accessibility. This demonstrates that Portland offers surprisingly robust opportunities for astrophotography despite its urban setting. This accessibility makes the hobby more attainable for local residents, reducing the need for extensive travel and fostering a vibrant local community of stargazers and photographers within the city itself.

Clubs, Workshops, and Stargazing Opportunities: Highlighting Local Astronomy and Photography Communities

Oregon provides a comprehensive and supportive infrastructure for learning and practicing astrophotography, catering to various skill levels and interests.

Rose City Astronomers (RCA): This non-profit volunteer organization is a cornerstone of Portland's astronomy community, dedicated to fostering the enjoyment and education of astronomy among its members and the general public. They host general membership meetings on the third Monday of each month at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), which typically feature guest speakers on astronomy-related topics and are free and open to all.
- Crucially, RCA also maintains an "Astronomical Imaging & Photography SIG" (Special Interest Group). This SIG is specifically designed to enhance the skills of astrophotographers across all levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—working with various camera types, including CCD, DSLR, point-and-shoot, and even film cameras. The group serves as a collaborative platform for members to learn from each other and improve their imaging techniques.
- RCA actively co-hosts OMSI Star Parties at designated dark-sky locations like L.L. "Stub" Stewart State Park (and occasionally Rooster Rock State Park). These public events offer fantastic opportunities for community stargazing, where attendees can observe celestial objects like planets, the moon, and distant stars through telescopes and binoculars provided by astronomers. While the events are free to attend, a parking fee typically applies.
Other Astronomy/Photography Clubs in Oregon:
- The South Yamhill River Astronomy Club (SYRAC), based in Willamina, OR, holds regular meetings and stargazing nights, providing another regional option for enthusiasts.
- Portland-area camera clubs, such as the Cascade Stereoscopic Club, Tryon Creek Photo Club, and Portland Photographic Society, offer broader photographic community connections. While their specific focus on astrophotography is not detailed in the available information, these clubs represent potential avenues for networking and finding like-minded photographers.
Astrophotography Workshops: Oregon offers several specialized workshops for those looking to hone their night sky photography skills:
- Ben Coffman Photography: Offers workshops focused on landscape astrophotography, with a strong emphasis on capturing the Milky Way. These workshops also cover sunset, sunrise, and twilight photography, providing comprehensive instruction on both in-field techniques and post-processing.
- Discover the Light Photography (Gregg Kerber): Provides immersive 2-night Milky Way photography workshops in Central Oregon. These workshops emphasize personalized, in-field instruction in visual design and expressive imagery, followed by hands-on post-processing sessions in Lightroom Classic and Photoshop. They cater to photographers from beginner to intermediate levels.
- Oregon Coast Landscape and Astro Workshop: A multi-day workshop (scheduled for June 25-30, 2025) that combines landscape photography with night sky shooting techniques, including Milky Way capture, along the scenic Oregon Coast.

The collection of resources—a dedicated astrophotography SIG within a major astronomy club

, regularly scheduled public star parties

, and multiple specialized workshops

—indicates a well-developed and supportive infrastructure for learning and practicing astrophotography in Oregon. This goes beyond mere interest, suggesting an active, organized community. For individuals interested in lunar or astrophotography in Portland, there are ample opportunities to develop skills, connect with experienced practitioners, and access guidance and communal viewing experiences, regardless of their current skill level. This rich ecosystem fosters growth and engagement in the hobby.

Moon-Related Events: Information on Upcoming Gatherings and Celestial Viewing

Portland's cultural landscape includes a diverse range of "moon events," extending beyond purely scientific observation to encompass spiritual gatherings, wellness practices, and even musical performances.

Full Moon Events (Non-Astronomical/Spiritual): Portland's cultural landscape includes various "Full Moon Gathering and Meditation" events, often with spiritual, wellness, or community-building themes. These gatherings can involve sound healing, women's circles, or broader community meditations. Notably, one such event in March 2025 was planned to coincide with a total lunar eclipse, also known as a "blood moon," adding a layer of astronomical significance to the spiritual gathering.
Astronomy-Focused Events:
- Mt. Hood Community College Planetarium: Offers public planetarium shows on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Their "Summer 2025 Backyard Astronomy" shows, for instance, discuss the changing night sky, including constellations, planets, and meteor showers. While not exclusively "blue moon" events, they provide valuable context and viewing opportunities for general celestial phenomena.
- Rose City Astronomers Star Parties: As previously mentioned, these public events are key opportunities to observe celestial objects through telescopes in dedicated viewing locations.
- Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary (Southern Oregon): Although located outside Portland in Lake County, this sanctuary is a significant regional resource for stargazers. It offers "breathtaking night sky viewing experiences" and hosts stargazing parties, particularly emphasizing the new moon phase for optimal dark sky viewing. This destination is ideal for those seeking truly pristine night skies.
"Blue Moon" Specific Cultural Events: Beyond astronomical or spiritual gatherings, the name "Blue Moon" also appears in Portland's cultural scene. For example, the band "Blue Moon Marquee" has a concert scheduled in Portland in May 2025. This highlights the diverse ways the "blue moon" concept resonates culturally.
No Calendrical Blue Moon in Portland in 2025: It is important to note for astronomical enthusiasts that according to moon phase calendars, there is no calendrical "blue moon" (second full moon in a calendar month) specifically scheduled for Portland in 2025.

The collection of information indicates that "moon events" in Portland are not confined to purely scientific observation but also encompass spiritual gatherings, wellness practices, and even musical performances.

This indicates a rich, multi-layered cultural engagement with the moon. For anyone seeking "blue moon" events in Portland, it is essential to understand that the term can refer to a wide variety of gatherings. This awareness helps in navigating event listings and choosing experiences that align with specific interests, whether they are scientific, spiritual, or purely for entertainment.

Table: Portland's "Blue Moon" and Astronomy-Related Resources

Resource Type	Name	Location/Area	Primary Focus/Offerings	Key Details/Notes
Business/Cultural Institution	Blue Moon Camera & Machine	8417 N Lombard Street, Portland, OR	Vintage film cameras, supplies, film processing (developing, scanning, printing), museum, community hub	Iconic analog photography institution, one of world's last optical printing labs, fosters community, hosts "Customer Show" galleries
Business/Cultural Institution	Blue Moon Tavern & Grill	432 NW 21st, Portland, OR	Northwest-style pub fare, handcrafted ales, live music, games (shuffleboard, pool, pinball)	Historic landmark (site settled over 150 years ago), pet-friendly sidewalk seating, popular local destination
Astronomy Club	Rose City Astronomers (RCA)	Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), L.L. "Stub" Stewart State Park, Rooster Rock State Park	Astronomy education, general membership meetings, Astronomical Imaging & Photography SIG, public Star Parties	Non-profit volunteer organization, free public meetings, dedicated astrophotography group, co-hosts OMSI Star Parties
Astronomy Club	South Yamhill River Astronomy Club (SYRAC)	Willamina, OR	Night sky preservation, stargazing opportunities, educational partnerships	Holds regular club meetings and stargazing nights
Educational Institution	Mt. Hood Community College Planetarium	Gresham Campus, Portland, OR	Public planetarium shows, backyard astronomy discussions	Shows on 1st and 3rd Thursdays, covers constellations, planets, meteor showers
Photography Workshop	Ben Coffman Photography	Various locations (focus on landscape astrophotography)	Landscape astrophotography workshops, Milky Way capture, sunset/sunrise/twilight photography, post-processing	Emphasizes in-field and post-processing techniques
Photography Workshop	Discover the Light Photography (Gregg Kerber)	Central Oregon (Sisters)	Milky Way photography workshops, visual design, expressive imagery, post-processing	Immersive 2-night adventures, personalized in-field instruction
Photography Workshop	Oregon Coast Landscape and Astro Workshop	Oregon Coast (Bandon to Seaside)	Landscape and night sky shooting techniques, Milky Way capture, post-processing	Multi-day workshop, includes lodging and transportation during the event
Stargazing Location	Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary	Lake County, Southern Oregon	Pristine dark sky viewing, stargazing parties, camping	Haven for astronomers and photographers, committed to dark sky preservation
Cultural Event (Music)	Blue Moon Marquee Concert	1195 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, OR	Live music performance (Blues)	Scheduled for May 2025
Cultural Event (Spiritual)	Full Moon Gathering and Meditation	Integrative Healing Arts Center, Portland, OR	Spiritual gatherings, meditation, sound healing, community building	Various events coinciding with full moon phases, some with astronomical themes (e.g., lunar eclipse)

VI. Conclusion: Embracing Your Blue Moon Journey in Portland

The concept of a "blue moon" is multifaceted, encompassing both a rare atmospheric phenomenon and a calendrical occurrence, alongside a broader aesthetic that inspires wonder and creativity. Understanding these distinctions is key to appreciating its diverse impact. For photographers, mastering lunar photography involves specific equipment and camera settings, but advancements in technology and post-processing techniques have made high-quality astrophotography increasingly accessible, even within urban environments like Portland.

Portland, Oregon, offers a unique and vibrant "Blue Moon" tapestry. From the historic Blue Moon Tavern & Grill, a beloved community hub with a rich past, to the renowned Blue Moon Camera & Machine, a global beacon for analog photography and a cultural institution, the city embraces the "blue moon" name in diverse ways. Furthermore, Portland and its surrounding areas provide a robust ecosystem for connecting with the cosmos. Active astronomy clubs like the Rose City Astronomers, specialized astrophotography workshops, and public stargazing events offer abundant opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels to learn, share, and capture the beauty of the night sky.

Whether the interest lies in chasing the elusive blue hue of an atmospherically altered moon, perfecting close-up lunar shots, exploring Portland's unique cultural landmarks, or joining a local star party to connect with fellow cosmic enthusiasts, the journey into the "blue moon" realm in Portland promises to be as captivating as the moon itself.