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NASA Astronomer Explains Supermoon

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American


I hope most of you were able to get out and see the largest moon of the year, the so-called "Supermoon", last night/this morning where the moon happens to be full and at perigee. It is not the super-est of Supermoons, as the perigee distance could be even closer, as it was in 2011 and will be again in 2016.

Were you aware that the most "super" Supermoons usually occur in the winter?

Have you wondered if Supermoons affect the tides?


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How do astronomers take advantage of these Supermoons to study the moon?

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NASA astronomer Michelle Thaller takes time to answer these questions and more! From Space.com comes a very informative interview.

Great information about the moon and its relationship with the Earth. Why not share this video with a child or teacher in your life!

Joanne Manaster is a university level cell and molecular biology lecturer with an insatiable passion for science outreach to all ages. Enjoy her quirky videos at www.joannelovesscience.com, on twitter @sciencegoddess and on her Facebook page at JoanneLovesScience

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