What is a Supermoon?
A Supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon's perigee, which is the point in its elliptical orbit when it is closest to Earth. This combination of events results in a moon that appears larger and brighter in the sky. In astrological tradition, the Supermoon is often associated with heightened emotions and intensified energies. To understand the significance of a Supermoon, let's consider the moon's orbit and how it affects the way we see the moon from Earth.
Astronomical Facts
According to NASA's data on the moon's orbit (NASA), the perigee distance varies, but on average, the moon is about 363,300 kilometers away from Earth at perigee. At apogee, which is the farthest point from Earth, the distance is approximately 405,500 kilometers. When a full moon occurs at perigee, it can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon at apogee. To put this into perspective, let's consider an example: if the moon's diameter is about 3,474 kilometers, a 14% increase in size would result in a diameter of approximately 3,959 kilometers. While this may not seem like a significant difference, the combined effect of the larger size and increased brightness can make the Supermoon appear more impressive in the sky.
For instance, imagine you are standing on a beach, watching the full moon rise over the horizon. The moon appears large and bright, but it's not until you see it in relation to other objects, such as buildings or trees, that you can appreciate its true size. During a Supermoon, the moon's larger size and increased brightness can create a stunning visual effect, making it seem as though the moon is closer to Earth than it actually is. If you want to try this out tonight, find a spot with a clear view of the horizon, and watch the moon rise while paying attention to its size and brightness in relation to other objects.
Why Photos Exaggerate the Supermoon
One reason why the Supermoon often appears more dramatic in photos than in real life is due to the way cameras capture images. When a camera is positioned close to the horizon, with the moon near the horizon, it can create a forced perspective that makes the moon appear larger than it actually is. Additionally, the use of wide-angle lenses and editing software can further enhance the moon's size and brightness, creating an exaggerated image. For example, a photographer might use a wide-angle lens to capture the moon rising over a cityscape, making the moon appear enormous in comparison to the buildings. However, this is an optical illusion created by the camera's perspective, rather than an accurate representation of the moon's size.
In reality, the Supermoon is not as enormous as it often appears in photographs. Research by Meeus (Meeus (1998)) has shown that the moon's apparent size is influenced by its proximity to the horizon and the presence of reference points, such as buildings or trees, which can create an optical illusion that makes the moon appear larger. To get a more accurate sense of the Supermoon's size, try viewing it from a location with a clear view of the horizon, and without any reference points that could create an optical illusion. You can also try using a camera with a standard lens, rather than a wide-angle lens, to capture a more realistic image of the moon.
In Astrological Tradition
In astrological tradition, the Supermoon is believed to have a profound impact on human emotions and behavior. It is thought to amplify feelings, intensify relationships, and bring about significant life events. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, the Supermoon has become a popular phenomenon in astrological circles, with many people believing that it holds spiritual significance. According to Forer (Forer (1949)), the Supermoon is often associated with increased emotional arousal, which can manifest as heightened creativity, passion, or conflict. However, it is essential to separate astronomical facts from astrological traditions and recognize that the Supermoon's effects on human behavior are not supported by empirical evidence.
That being said, the Supermoon can still be a powerful symbol for personal reflection and growth. You can try using the Supermoon as an opportunity to reflect on your emotions and relationships, and to set intentions for the future. For example, take some time to journal about your feelings and goals, and consider how you can use the energy of the Supermoon to amplify your positive intentions. You can also try practicing mindfulness and meditation during the Supermoon, to help you stay grounded and focused amidst any emotional turmoil.