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The moon illusion - Andrew Vanden Heuvel

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Our solar system

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Have you noticed how the full moon looks bigger on the horizon than high overhead? Actually, the two images are exactly the same size -- so why do we perceive them differently? Scientists aren't sure, but there are plenty of intriguing theories. Andrew Vanden Heuvel unravels the details of focus, distance and proportion that contribute to this mystifying optical illusion.

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About Space Ed

Space Ed helps you untangle the mysteries of space with the universe’s best videos on everything from Einstein's theory of relativity to what it would take to live on Mars. Brush up on the science, philosophy and mystery of space, because the fabric of the universe is the same fabric that connects us all.

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Andrew Vanden Heuvel
  • Director Tolga Yıldız, Serin İnan
  • Artist Evren Rodoplu, Hakan Taskiran
  • Narrator Michelle Snow

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