Compared to the furthest point in its orbit (apogee), how much larger in diameter can a supermoon appear?
Answer
About 14% larger
The physical difference between a supermoon (when the Moon is at perigee) and an average full moon at apogee (its furthest point) is quantifiable in terms of apparent size and brightness. Specifically, when comparing the supermoon to the apogee phase, the Moon can appear approximately 14% larger in diameter. Additionally, it can appear about 30% brighter due to the increased luminosity resulting from its closer proximity to Earth. This slight increase in brightness is one of the few physical differences cited that could potentially correlate with biological effects, primarily through increased ambient light exposure.
Related Questions
Who initially popularized the term "supermoon" in the 1970s according to source background?What astronomical term defines the Moon's closest orbital approach to Earth, central to the supermoon concept?Compared to the furthest point in its orbit (apogee), how much larger in diameter can a supermoon appear?What specific sleep deficit was noted in participants taking longer to fall asleep during full moon nights?What psychological concept is often suggested to explain why nurses and ER staff believe chaos spikes during a full moon?Why is the apparent alignment between the menstrual cycle and the lunar cycle generally considered coincidental rather than causal?The gravitational effect of the Moon on the human body is considered negligible compared to its influence on which Earth feature?What conclusion did studies analyzing total volume and behavioral health volume in EDs find regarding perigee full moons?Historically, before artificial lighting, what consequence could increased illumination from a bright moon have had on human patterns?What Greek word, meaning month, is related to the word for Moon and forms the root of the term menstruation?