Supermoon Shines Brightly on Sharad Poornima in India
On October 17, people across India were mesmerized by the ‘Supermoon’ phenomenon. This event occurs when the full moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. Astronomy fans used telescopes and cameras to capture this stunning sight. The day also coincided with ‘Sharad Poornima,’ a Hindu festival celebrated in the month of Ashwin.
What is a Supermoon?
According to NASA, a supermoon happens when a full moon aligns with the moon’s closest position to Earth, known as perigee. During its 27-day orbit, the moon reaches perigee at about 363,300 km from Earth. Although ‘supermoon’ is not an official term in astronomy, it describes a full moon that is at least 90% of perigee. Supermoons occur three or four times a year and are always consecutive.
Effects of a Supermoon
When the full moon is closest to Earth, it can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is farthest away. This also causes higher tides than usual.
Doubts Revealed
Supermoon -: A supermoon is when the moon looks bigger and brighter in the sky because it is closer to Earth than usual. This happens a few times a year.
Sharad Poornima -: Sharad Poornima is a special Hindu festival celebrated in India. It marks the end of the monsoon season and is known for its bright full moon night.
NASA -: NASA is the United States’ space agency that studies space and planets. They help us understand things like supermoons and other space phenomena.
Perigee -: Perigee is the point in the moon’s orbit when it is closest to Earth. This makes the moon look bigger and brighter, which is why we see a supermoon.
Higher tides -: Higher tides happen when the moon is closer to Earth, like during a supermoon. The moon’s gravity pulls on the Earth’s water, making the tides rise more than usual.