The largest supermoon of the year: Tonight is a full moon – Science –

On October 17, 2024, the sky will be lit by an exceptionally close full moon – a so-called supermoon. Located just 357,175 kilometers from Earth, this moon is this year's closest full moon to Earth, even closer than September's supermoon.

Although the term “supermoon” is widely used, it is not a scientific term but comes from astrology. “A supermoon occurs when the Moon reaches the position of the full moon at perigee, that is, the position closest to the Earth in its elliptical orbit,” explains Björn Voss, director of the Hamburg Planetarium. “The distance between the Earth and the Moon varies because of this.” The moon's orbit is not circular, but elliptical. While a supermoon is only 7% larger and 15% brighter than an average full moon, these differences are often difficult to see in the night sky.

The supermoon appears larger and brighter than a regular full moon, but without a direct comparison, these differences are difficult to see. However, the moon looks especially impressive when it is low in the sky. Thanks to the lunar illusion, the supermoon can appear even more powerful in this position.

Whether you use the term “supermoon” or not, the celestial event on October 17, 2024 is a highlight for stargazers. However, the best time to experience the closest point to Earth is in the early morning hours.