Moon Distance Calculator

The Moon's average distance from Earth is approximately 384,400 km (238,855 miles). This is known as the mean lunar distance. Because the Moon follows an elliptical orbit, the actual distance varies continuously between its closest point (perigee) and farthest point (apogee).

Perigee is the point in the Moon's orbit where it is closest to Earth. At perigee, the Moon can be as close as approximately 356,500 km (221,500 miles). When a full moon coincides with perigee, it is often called a 'supermoon' and appears larger and brighter than usual.

Apogee is the point in the Moon's orbit where it is farthest from Earth. At apogee, the Moon can be as far as approximately 406,700 km (252,700 miles). A full moon at apogee is sometimes called a 'micromoon' and appears slightly smaller in the sky.

The Moon orbits Earth in an elliptical (oval-shaped) path rather than a perfect circle. This means one side of the orbit is closer and the other is farther. The shape of the ellipse also changes over time due to gravitational influences from the Sun and other bodies, causing perigee and apogee distances to vary slightly each orbit.

Modern calculations use precise orbital mechanics equations derived from the Moon's known orbital elements — including eccentricity, inclination, and anomaly. This calculator uses a simplified elliptical orbit model based on the synodic period of 29.53 days and the Moon's known perigee and apogee distances to estimate distance for a given date.

One Lunar Distance (LD) equals the mean Earth-Moon distance of approximately 384,400 km. Astronomers sometimes use LD as a convenient unit when describing the close approaches of asteroids or comets to Earth. An object passing at 1 LD is at roughly the same distance as the Moon.

The Moon's gravitational pull is the primary driver of Earth's ocean tides. When the Moon is at perigee (closest), its gravitational influence is stronger, leading to higher 'perigean spring tides.' When it is at apogee (farthest), tidal forces are slightly weaker and tidal ranges are lower.

Yes. The Moon is gradually moving away from Earth at a rate of about 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) per year. This recession is caused by tidal interactions — Earth's rotation transfers angular momentum to the Moon, slowly pushing it into a higher orbit. Over billions of years this will cause the Moon to appear smaller in the sky.