full moon

[pine martin]

could anybody tell me when during the year does a full moon look at its largest

[weggiewabbit]

I think it�s the Hunter�s Moon ...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunter's_moon

[mibn2cweus]

which year?

[pine martin]

thank you rabbit

[mibn2cweus]

OK then, I'll guess?

The apparent size of a full moon is inversely related to its distance. This year (2008) the closest approach of the Moon to the Earth occurs Dec 12 21:38 at a distance of 356567 km just four hours after full moon.

This Full Cold Moon aka Full Long Nights Moon will be closer "full moon look at its largest" than last years (2007) Full Hunter Moon on Oct 26 11:52 which was closest (356754 km) six hours later.

Incidentally, since the Earth will also be closer to the Sun expect very high tides.

[gen2]

There is an alternative interpretation of pine martin's (sic) question. The full moon looks largest (at any time of the year) when it is close to the horizon and the viewer can see earthly objects alongside for comparison.

http://www.howstuffworks.com/question491.htm

[weggiewabbit]

A very good point, gen2 ... I wish I�d said that!

[mibn2cweus]

During an eclipse? <"?

google map of august solar eclipse

total lunar eclipse early thursday morning

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