Images of the Last Supermoon of the Year That Lit Up the World
What is a Supermoon? A Guide to Earth’s Closest Full Moon
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This Friday marked a spectacular celestial event: a Supermoon. But what exactly *is* a Supermoon, and why are they so captivating?
A Supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with teh Moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit – a point known as perigee. This alignment results in a brighter and larger-appearing lunar spectacle than a typical full moon.
How Much Closer and Brighter?
During a Supermoon, Earth’s satellite appears approximately 15% brighter and is about 22,000 kilometers (13,670 miles) closer to our planet. While this difference isn’t always dramatically noticeable to the casual observer, it does create a more extraordinary visual experience, especially when the Moon is near the horizon.
Recent and Future Supermoons
Supermoons aren’t an everyday occurrence. The most recent Supermoon graced our skies last November. If you weren’t able to catch it, don’t worry – there’s another prospect on the horizon.
Mark your calendars for May 16, 2026, when the next Supermoon is scheduled to appear.This provides ample time to plan for optimal viewing conditions and capture stunning photographs.
Why Do Supermoons Matter?
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Supermoons have a subtle effect on Earth. The closer proximity results in slightly stronger tides, known as perigean spring tides. While generally not dangerous, coastal areas may experience higher-than-usual high tides during a Supermoon.
The Supermoon is a stunning reminder of the dynamic relationship between Earth and its celestial companion.