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![]() by Brooks Hays Washington (UPI) Jul 11, 2013
Weather permitting, watchers of the night sky will be set aglow by a Supermoon this evening. A Supermoon is the same, regular moon, only it appears up to three-times bigger than normal. Supermoons occur when the moon enters its full moon phase on the portion of its orbit when it swings closest to Earth's surface -- 30,000 miles closer. Though the moon will appear much larger than usual, it has not actually swelled in size. Its impressive dimensions are a product of its slightly closer proximity and part optical illusion. To take full advantage of the optical illusion part, it's best to catch a glimpse of the Supermoon when it's closest to the horizon -- peering out over the top of buildings and trees. The Supermoon can be seen in all its glory both Friday and Saturday night this weekend. A Supermoon has many names. It can also be referred to as a Buck, Sturgeon or Corn Moon. Astronomer Bruce McClure said before that "we called them a perigee full moon ... Perigee just means 'near Earth.'" If weather ruins your shot to see the Supermoon, the celestial phenomenon will return again on August 10 and September 9.
Related Links Mars News and Information at MarsDaily.com Lunar Dreams and more
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