‘Slightly larger, more luminous’: New Mexico astronomy expert offers supermoon perspective

NEW MEXICO Residents of New Mexico may notice the moon appearing slightly larger than usual this Thursday evening, as the year's final supermoon rises.

Rick Fienberg, Senior Advisor at the American Astronomical Society, explains, A supermoon happens when the full moon coincides with the moons closest approach to Earth in its orbit. This makes the moon appear somewhat larger and more luminous than a typical full moon.

Quantitatively, the supermoon is roughly 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a standard full moon. According to Fienberg, supermoons often occur in clusters of two to four each year.

The term supermoon was introduced by an astrologer around 15 years ago, who suggested that a full moon near Earth could have negative impacts. This idea has since been debunked, though the name continues to be used.

Fienberg reassures viewers, There is no astronomical or astrological cause for concern.

The optimal time to observe the supermoon is when it is near the horizonjust after sunset or just before sunrisedue to a phenomenon called the Moon Illusion. The moon seems larger at the horizon because our brains interpret it against landscape features as closer than it actually is, he added. Even if you dont notice a significant size difference, the effect is relatively subtle.

For stargazing enthusiasts, additional celestial events are visible this week. On Wednesday, the Pleiades star cluster in the Taurus constellation will appear near the nearly full moon. Fienberg suggests using binoculars to see one of the stars seemingly interact with the moons edge.

Additionally, a meteor shower is expected to peak later in the week. However, the brightness of the nearly full moon may make it challenging to spot the shooting stars.

Analysis: Understanding the Supermoon Phenomenon

The final supermoon of the year presents a unique opportunity for skywatchers, especially in New Mexico, where the moon will appear slightly larger than usual. This event is a result of the moon's closest approach to Earth in its orbit, causing it to look about 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. While this may be an impressive sight, it’s important to remember that the changes in size and brightness are subtle. Despite the popular name, there is no need for concern, as the supermoon has no significant impact on Earth beyond its visual appeal.

Rick Fienberg of the American Astronomical Society emphasizes that supermoons occur regularly throughout the year in clusters of two to four. The phenomenon, while visually striking, has no detrimental effects on the planet. The term "supermoon," coined by an astrologer over 15 years ago, still carries some outdated, unfounded associations, but modern science has debunked any concerns over its influence.

For optimal viewing, the best time to observe the supermoon is near the horizon, either just after sunset or before sunrise. This is due to the "Moon Illusion," where the moon appears larger against terrestrial features. Though the size difference is subtle, the spectacle can still be captivating. Additionally, this week, skywatchers will also be able to catch a glimpse of the Pleiades star cluster and a meteor shower, although the brightness of the supermoon may obscure some shooting stars.

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• ‘A little bit bigger, brighter’: New Mexico astronomy expert shares supermoon insight