Another supermoon to observe/photo

  • Context: Stargazing 
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the occurrence of a supermoon on December 14, marking the third consecutive month of such events. This full moon is classified as a perigee moon, appearing approximately 14% larger and 30% brighter than typical full moons. The phenomenon is attributed to the Moon's elliptical orbit, bringing it about 50,000 km closer to Earth at perigee compared to apogee. Participants also engage in light-hearted conversation about mnemonic devices for remembering the term.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lunar phases and terminology
  • Familiarity with the concepts of perigee and apogee
  • Basic knowledge of astronomy and celestial events
  • Awareness of how to observe and photograph celestial phenomena
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of perigee moons on tides and Earth’s atmosphere
  • Learn techniques for photographing supermoons effectively
  • Explore the historical significance of supermoons in various cultures
  • Investigate the scientific implications of lunar distance variations
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, photographers interested in celestial events, educators teaching about lunar phenomena, and anyone keen on observing supermoons.

davenn
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for the 3rd month in a row we are getting a supermoon full moon on the 14 Dec is another supermoon

details from Spaceweather.com
TONIGHT'S FULL MOON IS A PERIGEE MOON: If you think tonight's full Moon seems a bit bigger and brighter than usual, you're right. It's a "perigee Moon," about 14% bigger and 30% brighter than lesser full Moons we've seen earlier this year. The Moon's orbit is an ellipse with one side (perigee) about 50,000 km closer than the other (apogee): diagram. Perigee moons--a.k.a. "supermoons"--are not unusual. This is the third month in a row we've had one.
cheers
Dave
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
Thanks for the mnemonic. (What a word, how do you remember its spelling? By another mnemonic? Mon(!?) et Monique? I like ours better.)
 

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