'Moon Illusion' will appear in the night sky TOMORROW... here's how to see the visual phenomenon

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'Moon Illusion' will appear in the night sky TOMORROW... here's how to see the visual phenomenon

Daily Mail
By OSHEEN YADAV
9 July 2025



Skywatchers are in for a treat when the summer's first full moon creates an illusion in the night sky.

Although the moon reaches its full phase on Thursday at 4:36pm ET, it will appear most dramatic as it rises above the horizon after sunset, glowing with a striking orange hue and seeming larger than usual.

This is known as the 'Moon Illusion,' a rare visual phenomenon that plays a trick on the mind.

As the moon hovers near the horizon, the human brain compares it to nearby objects like trees, buildings, or mountains, making it appear far bigger than when it’s high overhead in the empty sky.

To experience the moon illusion for yourself, start by looking at the full moon, normally when it's near the horizon.

Then, try viewing it through a cardboard tube to block out surrounding objects, which helps isolate the moon and reduces the illusion.

You can also look at the moon upside down by bending over and peering through your legs, or, if you have access to one, leaning backward while seated on a swing.

NASA says the moon typically looks orange or red near the horizon because Earth’s thick atmosphere scatters blue light, letting the warmer colors through, the same reason sunsets look red.

(more)
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14890367/buck-Moon-Illusion-appear-night-sky-july.html

[bigheadfred]

You can see a full moon  by bending over and looking up between your legs? Who knew?

[Smokin Joe]

You can see a full moon  by bending over and looking up between your legs? Who knew?

Maybe if I just use a mirror....

[rustynail]

Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing..