Sunday, March 20, 2011

SUPERMOON

Thousands gathered at the Lake Worth Pier last night at sunset to view the rising SUPERMOON. Well, maybe hundreds, but it seemed like more, as we circled the lower parking lot. We hoped we would be in time to see it pop over the horizon. Not to worry. I saw it popping as we followed our neighbor up on the fence. A first ever for me, to see the moon rise with no haze or clouds on the horizon. So, what's the big deal? A full moon at it's perigee-syzygy! That's what. It's perfectly aligned with the setting sun and at it's closest point to the Earth in 18 years. It appears 15% larger and brighter to the eye than at the the apogee, the opposite point of it's eliptical orbit. Is it a coincidence that earthquakes and tsunamis have been associated with this phenomonon in the past? I guess we just had to be there with the crowd to experience it. Most people don't think about this as they snap away - some with strobes blasting. We use strobe for one shot when the sunset glow starts to fade. We keep our perch until cars start pouring out of the upper lot. Not so fast. It's hurry up and wait. An actual traffic jam. Looking toward the Casino shops, one thing is for sure. We have a better plan. With an eye on the prize we make our way to NYPD Pizza, where people in the know are lining up for some great pizza. If you are wondering why it is not bright like South Beach, the street lights are off at night to protect the sea turtles. But Neon prevails at NYPD and the romantic light of the moon lingers on the water as the stream of cars with weary passengers continues. Tip of the Day: Get there early and have an exit strategy. Many Happy Moons, Leora All rights reserved ©2011 LEORA LONG

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