Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the upcoming largest first quarter moon of the year, which will occur on February 24, 2026, when the moon is at its perigee, approximately 370,000 kilometers from Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual [1]. Summary by Relevant Sections - Moon Phases and Visibility - The first quarter moon will be visible to the public without any special equipment, allowing for easy observation [1]. - The moon's phases change due to the relative positions of the sun, Earth, and moon, leading to the phenomenon of lunar waxing and waning [1]. - The first quarter moon typically appears around the 7th to 9th day of the lunar month, rising around noon and setting around midnight, making it more suitable for public viewing compared to the last quarter moon [1]. - Significance of the Upcoming First Quarter Moon - The February 24 first quarter moon is termed the "largest first quarter moon of the year" because it coincides with the moon's perigee, where it is closest to Earth [1]. - The moon's orbit is elliptical, causing the distance to vary, with the farthest point exceeding 400,000 kilometers and the closest point being less than 360,000 kilometers [1]. - The proximity of the moon during this phase results in a larger and brighter appearance compared to other first quarter moons [1]. - Future Lunar Events - Following the largest first quarter moon, the smallest last quarter moon of the year will occur 15 days later [1]. - The average time for the moon to transition from perigee to apogee is approximately 14 days, with the average interval between first and last quarter moons being about 15 days [1]. - This timing often results in the largest first quarter moon and the smallest last quarter moon appearing in the same or adjacent lunar months [1].
24日将迎年度最大上弦月 公众仅凭肉眼即可欣赏
Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-22 08:41