Supermoons: When the Full Moon Appears Extra Large

A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest point to Earth, called perigee.
Supermoons can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.
The term “supermoon” was popularized in the 1970s by an astrologer, though scientists use “perigee-syzygy.”
On average, there are 3 to 4 supermoons per year.
They’re most noticeable when the Moon is near the horizon, creating a dramatic “moon illusion.”
Not all full moons at perigee are equal—some are closer and brighter than others.
The opposite of a supermoon is a micromoon, when the Moon is at apogee (farthest point).
Supermoons often overlap with cultural names like the Harvest Moon or Wolf Moon.
While visually striking, supermoons have no significant effect on Earth beyond slightly stronger tides.
Their breathtaking appearance makes them one of the most photographed lunar events worldwide.