Moon Music Reflections on the Night of the Super Moon

If the weather cooperates tonight, the moon will seem larger and brighter than normal.  This won't be your imagination, either.

The moon reaches annual perigee tonight--specifically at 11:34 pm EDT--which means it's at the closest point to the earth in its orbit.  Because it's only 221,802 miles away--some 15,000 miles closer than average--the full moon will appear 14% larger and 30% larger, hence the term "super moon."

This is also a good time to bring up the difference between "insane" and "lunatic."  "Insane" connotes an inherent mental problem.  "Lunatic" describe someone who has been made temporarily crazy by the effects of luna--the moon.  Back in the 19th century, British law actually allowed for lighter sentences for people determined to have committed crimes under the influence of a full moon.

The moon has also provided great inspiration for songwriters.  It has also had a lasting influence on the culture of rock.  Take a look at this brief overview of the moon in popular culture.