The average distance from the Earth to the Moon is approximately 384,400 kilometers (238,855 miles), which is about 30 times the diameter of Earth
. However, this distance varies because the Moon's orbit is elliptical. At its closest point (perigee), the Moon is about 356,470 kilometers (221,500 miles) from Earth, and at its farthest point (apogee), it is about 405,500 kilometers (252,000 miles) away
. This variation means the Moon can appear about 14% larger and 30% brighter at perigee compared to apogee, sometimes referred to as a "supermoon" when closest
. Currently, the Moon's distance from Earth can vary day to day, and precise measurements are made using laser ranging techniques with reflectors left on the lunar surface by Apollo missions
. In summary:
- Average distance: ~384,400 km (238,855 miles)
- Closest distance (perigee): ~356,470 km (221,500 miles)
- Farthest distance (apogee): ~405,500 km (252,000 miles)
These distances fluctuate continuously due to the Moon's elliptical orbit around Earth
