The full moon tomorrow—on September 16, 2016, is sparking some debate in the astronomical community.
It will be the Northern Hemisphere’s harvest moon, being the closest full moon to the autumnal equinox. And, as seen from the Eastern Hemisphere, it will undergo a faint penumberal eclipse. Astronomers are on agreement on these two points. However, the big question is this: will it be a supermoon?
First of all, what is a supermoon? Astrologer Richard Nolle has defined it as “a new or full moon which occurs with the moon at or near (within 90% of) its closest approach to Earth in a given orbit.”
The moon’s orbit is actually elliptical, so its distance from Earth varies throughout its orbit. Its closest approach to Earth is called its perigee, whereas its farthest distance from Earth is termed its apogee.
Remember, Nolle stated that a full or new moon is considered a “supermoon” if it comes “within 90% of its closest approach to Earth.” Therefore, a full or new moon is “super” if its distance from Earth falls within 90% of the difference between the moon’s apogee and perigee.
Here is where the debate lies. The moon’s apogees and perigees vary throughout the year. So, if the moon’s closest approach to earth varies, so does our definition of a supermoon. It all depends on which apogee and perigee you use.
If you choose the moon’s farthest apogee and closest perigee in 2016, then this September’s full moon is NOT a supermoon.
However, if you choose the moon’s apogee and perigee for the month of September, then this September’s full moon is indeed “super.”
So, take your pick. At any rate—supermoon or no supermoon—be sure to head outside tomorrow and take a look at our beautiful satellite. A full moon is a lovely sight at any time, regardless of our legalistic descriptions of its size. 🙂
Read more by Katharina on her page Sky Watcher
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