NASA Astronomer Explains Supermoon
By Joanne Manaster
This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
I hope most of you were able to get out and see the largest moon of the year, the so-called "Supermoon", last night/this morning where the moon happens to be full and at perigee. It is not the super-est of Supermoons, as the perigee distance could be even closer, as it was in 2011 and will be again in 2016.
Were you aware that the most "super" Supermoons usually occur in the winter?
Have you wondered if Supermoons affect the tides?
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
How do astronomers take advantage of these Supermoons to study the moon?
____
NASA astronomer Michelle Thaller takes time to answer these questions and more! From Space.com comes a very informative interview.
Great information about the moon and its relationship with the Earth. Why not share this video with a child or teacher in your life!
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.