January 6, 2023
Wolf Moon
The Wolf Moon is the first full moon of the year. This year, it is also a micromoon. This is when the moon is at the farthest point from the Earth. The Wolf Moon can also be called the “Center Moon,” marking the middle of the cold season.
What is a Micromoon?
A micromoon is when a Full Moon or New Moon coincides with apogee. Apogee refers to when the moon is at the farthest point away from the Earth. During a micromoon, the moon may look smaller and less bright. A micromoon is the opposite of a supermoon. A supermoon is when the moon is at the closest point to the earth.
The Moons Orbit
The moon orbits the earth on an elliptical path. The point at which the moon is the closest to the earth is referred to as a perigee. The point at which the moon is farthest from the earth is known as an apogee.
Tidal Shift
During the Full Moon and New Moon, significant tidal shifts occur. This is due to the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun on the ocean’s water. Micromoons lead to a smaller variation of spring tide.
Vocabulary Quiz
Micromoon
Supermoon
Apogee
Perigee
Wolf Moon
