What causes the moon to appear larger during a Super Moon?

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The Moon Appears Larger During a Super Moon Due to its Proximity to Earth

During a Super Moon event, the moon appears approximately seven percent larger than during other full moon phases. This visual magnification occurs because the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, a point known as perigee. This closer distance makes the lunar body seem more prominent in the night sky.
Closest Orbital Point to Earth

A Super Moon is defined by the moon's orbital position relative to Earth. Specifically, it happens when a full moon coincides with the moon being at or near its perigee. Perigee is the point in the moon's elliptical orbit where it is closest to our planet.
Visual Magnification Effect

The difference in apparent size, cited as around seven percent larger, is a direct consequence of this reduced distance. While the actual physical size of the moon does not change, its proximity to an observer on Earth creates a noticeable magnification effect, making it appear more substantial in the sky compared to when it is further away at apogee.
Simultaneous Phenomena

The term "Super Flower Blood Moon," as observed on May 26, 2021, highlights that this phenomenon can occur alongside other celestial events. The "Super Moon" aspect specifically refers to the apparent size increase due to closeness, while "Flower Moon" is a traditional name for the full moon in May, and "Blood Moon" describes the reddish hue seen during a total lunar eclipse.

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What causes the moon to appear larger during a Super Moon?

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