NASA | Supermoon 2013

Dr. Michelle Thaller explains the concept of a Super Moon, which occurs when a full moon is near its closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. The Super Moon appears slightly larger and affects tides minimally. The best time to view it is at sunset. The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) provides high-resolution images of the Moon, revealing details like Apollo landing sites and permanently shadowed craters with potential ice. The Moon's terrain, including Tycho crater, offers insights into the solar system's history. For more information, visit NASA's LRO website.

What is a Super Moon?

• A new moon that occurs at the farthest point from Earth

• A new moon that occurs at the closest point to Earth

• A full moon that occurs at the closest point to Earth

• A full moon that occurs at the farthest point from Earth

How much larger does a Super Moon appear compared to an average full moon?

• 5% larger

• 10% larger

• 12% larger

• 15% larger

When is the best time to view a full moon for a spectacular view?

• At sunset

• At midnight

• At sunrise

• At noon

What is one of the key discoveries made by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter?

• Detection of lunar atmosphere

• Discovery of new lunar craters

• Evidence of water ice in permanently shadowed craters

• Presence of active volcanoes on the Moon

What is the coldest temperature recorded in the solar system by LRO?

• 100 degrees Celsius above absolute zero

• 50 degrees Celsius above absolute zero

• 200 degrees Celsius above absolute zero

• 23 degrees Celsius above absolute zero

What can be seen in the images of the Apollo landing sites captured by LRO?

• Newly formed craters

• Active lunar volcanoes

• American flags still standing

• Lunar atmosphere

What is the significance of the Tycho crater as observed by LRO?

• It is the site of a recent meteor impact

• It is the largest crater on the Moon

• It has a central mountain peak with large boulders

• It contains active lava flows