Some think the “Ponzo Illusion” causes the Moon to look bigger than normal.

Other scientists think that humans see a low-hanging Moon in the background, along with trees and buildings in the foreground, and unconsciously view the Moon as larger when compared with these nearby, earthly objects.

Still other scientific types think that the shape of the sky (curvature of the Earth) has an effect on how large or small the Moon appears to our human eyes and brains.

And, other explanations have been put forth by scientists. None have been generally accepted as of yet.
Dr. Don McCready, Professor Emeritus, from the Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, gives his explanations at “The Moon Illusion Explained.”

Read on for more information about the Moon Illusion, and times to see the full Moon rising.