Supermoon, Why the Moon Looks So Big

When a full moon occurs when it is closest to the earth, it is called a:

Supermoon!

 Photo Credit: Gawker.com

This Saturday, March 19th, the moon will officially be a "full moon" at 2:10PM EST. And, at about the same time, the moon will reach its closest distance to the earth, arriving at 3PM EST. Putting these two events together, this year's Supermoon will appear:

• 14% larger than normal, and
• 30% brighter than usual.

This rare event only happens once every 18 years or so. Since weather forecasts in the eastern U.S. are expected to be clear, we recommend everyone tries to take a break from their normal routines and enjoy the fantastic Supermoon.

Related articles

• Rise of the 'Supermoon': Biggest Full Moon in 18 Years Occurs Saturday Night (space.com)
• What Is a 'SuperMoon'? (abcnews.go.com)
• Do Supermoons Cause Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions (brighthub.com)