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Moon will shine brightest on Dec 22

As the millennium comes to a close, a spectacular event would unfold in the skies on December 22 when the full moon will shine the brightest in 133 years.

The last time this phenomenon occurred was on December 21, 1866 and now the fading century will give a unique gift to mankind which will be fondly remembered in the next millennium.

According to a release from the Confederation of Indian Amateur Astronomers, in December the earth is several miles closer to the sun than in The summer, and sunlight striking the moon is 7 per cent stronger making it appear brighter. Also, this will be the closest perigee (a point when the moon's orbit is closest to the earth) of the year.

The CIAA has suggested observers to look for an eastern looking, hiking or paddling place and observe the moon between December 20 and 24.

UNI

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