Astronomy Picture of the Day · January 2, 2024

Rocket Transits Rippling Moon

The Astronomy Picture of the Day for January 2, 2024 is “Rocket Transits Rippling Moon,” an image. The picture is copyrighted by its creator (Image Credit & Copyright: Steven Madow). The original explanation runs about 139 words.

A rocket is pictured ascending during launch. A nearly full moon is behind it. The rocket exhaust, itself visible, causes the bottom of the Moon to appear unusually rippled. Please see the explanation for more detailed information. — Credit: Image Credit & Copyright: Steven Madow Copyrighted Shown from science.nasa.gov. Not hosted by OpenOrbit.

From the explanation

“Can a rocket make the Moon ripple? No, but it can make a background moon appear wavy .”

— APOD editors, January 2, 2024

Read the full explanation on science.nasa.gov

At a glance

Date: January 2, 2024
Type: Image
Credit: Credit: Image Credit & Copyright: Steven Madow
Copyright: Copyrighted by the credited creator. Ask the copyright holder before reusing it.
Explanation length: About 139 words