The moon is 238,855 miles (384,400 km) from Earth on average. This distance from the Earth to the Moon varies between 225,623 miles (363,104 km) to its nearest point (perigee) and 252,088 miles (405,696 km) to its furthest point (apogee) due to its elliptical orbit. The Moon’s distance in miles changes throughout its orbit, affecting the distance between the Moon and Earth.
Detailed answer
Average distance from Earth to the Moon
- Average distance: The moon is 238,855 miles (384,400 km) from Earth on average, which is the typical distance from Earth to the Moon
- Light travel time: At this average distance from the moon in miles, light takes approximately 1.28 seconds travel from the Moon to Earth
Orbital variations in distance from the Moon
- Closest approach (perigee): 225,623 miles (363,104 km) from Earth, the shortest distance from Earth to the Moon
- Farthest point (apogee): 252,088 miles (405,696 km) from Earth, the maximum distance from the Moon in miles
- Orbital range: The distance between the Moon and the Earth varies from approximately 26,465 miles (42,592 km) throughout its orbit, affecting the distance to the moon at different times
Visual effects of distance variation
- Apparent size: At perigee, when the Moon is closest to Earth, it appears 14% larger And 30% brighter that at the climax
- Super Moon: When a full moon coincides with perigee, it is called a “supermoon”, appearing slightly larger and brighter than usual due to the reduced distance between the Earth and the Moon.
Measuring and scaling the distance to the moon
- Measurement accuracy: Modern techniques like the Lunar Laser Ranging experiment can measure how far away the Moon is. millimeter precision
- Scale Comparison: If the Earth were a Orange 3 inches in diameterthe moon would be a ping pong ball in orbit 6.7 feet far, illustrating the relative distance from Earth to the Moon
Interesting facts about the distance of the moon
- Gradual recession: The Moon is slowly moving away from the Earth at a speed of approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) per year, gradually increasing the distance from the moon
- Historical measurement: The Ancient Greeks estimated the distance of the Moon to be approximately 397,500 km (247,000 miles), which was relatively accurate for its time in determining how far away the moon is.
FAQs
How far away is the moon on average?
The Moon is on average 238,855 miles (384,400 km) from Earth. This is the typical distance between the Earth and the Moon that we refer to when discussing the location of the Moon.
What is the closest distance between Earth and the Moon?
The closest distance between Earth and the Moon, known as perigee, is 363,104 km. This happens when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit.
What is the greatest distance between Earth and the Moon?
The farthest distance between Earth and the Moon, called apogee, is 405,696 km. This happens when the Moon reaches its farthest point from Earth in its orbit.
How much does the moon’s distance in miles vary throughout its orbit?
The moon’s distance in miles varies by approximately 26,465 miles (42,592 km) throughout its orbit. This variation is due to the Moon’s elliptical path around the Earth, causing it to move closer and further away during its monthly cycle.
How long does it take for light to travel the distance from Earth to the Moon?
At the average distance from Earth to the Moon (238,855 miles or 384,400 km), it takes about 1.28 seconds for light to travel between the two celestial bodies. This illustrates the great distance between Earth and its natural satellite.