Fully Moon
By Jens Geffken - Written 13 Feb 25The full moon is caused by the relative position of the Earth, Moon, and Sun in space. More precisely, the full moon is the phase when the Moon is directly opposite the Sun on the other side of the Earth. This means the Sun illuminates the entire visible face of the Moon, making it appear in its full brightness. This alignment occurs approximately every 29.5 days and is a key part of the lunar cycle, which consists of four main phases: new moon, waxing moon, full moon, and waning moon.
The Lunar Cycle and Its Phases
The Moon takes about 29.5 days to orbit the Earth, a period known as a synodic month. During this cycle, the Moon changes its position relative to the Earth and Sun, leading to the different phases. The full moon marks the peak of this cycle when the surface of the Moon is fully illuminated by sunlight, and from Earth’s perspective, it reaches its greatest brightness.
Brightness and Influence of the Full Moon
The full moon is particularly bright because the lunar surface reflects about 12% of sunlight. However, the Moon’s brightness varies depending on its distance from Earth. When the Moon is at its closest point (perigee), it can appear up to 14% brighter than at its farthest point (apogee).
The striking brightness of the full moon not only has a visual effect but also exerts a certain fascination on Earth. Over the millennia, different cultures have attributed mystical and religious meanings to the Moon. In many cultures, the Moon is associated with divine power, fertility, or even madness.
The Influence of the Full Moon on the Planet
The full moon has always sparked human imagination. In numerous myths and legends, it is linked to mystical powers and supernatural phenomena. The belief in the “madness of the full moon,” where people react unpredictably or fearfully, is deeply rooted in many cultures, although modern scientific studies often fail to confirm this connection.
Nevertheless, there are indications that the Moon influences human behavior. A study found a slight increase in sleep disturbances and lower sleep quality during the full moon, although the causes are not fully understood. In some ancient cultures, it was even believed that the full moon could influence human behavior in extreme situations, such as madness, crime, or even childbirth.
The Moon and Its Impact on Nature
The influence of the full moon extends beyond humans. The Moon, through its gravity, also affects the tides of the oceans. The Moon’s gravitational pull causes the tidal cycle, which results in high and low tides. During full moon and new moon phases, the tides are particularly strong because the gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun align and reinforce each other.
Plants and animals also react to the full moon. Certain plant species only open their flowers in moonlight, while animals like some crustaceans and insects synchronize their reproductive cycles with the Moon. There are indications that certain fish, such as carp, also align their reproduction with the lunar cycle. In some regions of the world, such as the Fiji Islands, the Moon plays a crucial role in agricultural harvests, as planting behavior and harvest times are directly related to the lunar cycle.
Scientific research on the Moon and its effects on Earth remains an exciting topic. The gravitational interplay between the Moon and Earth is one of the greatest influencing factors that shapes nature and life on Earth. Astronomers and geophysicists continue to study how the Moon impacts climate and natural phenomena.
The full moon is not only an astronomical event but also a natural influencing factor that has played a central role in human culture and natural life for a long time. Despite many myths and legends, there is clear scientific evidence that the Moon, especially in its full moon phase, has effects on behavior and nature, even if the exact mechanisms are not always clear. Here are some possible explanations.
Humans and the Full Moon
The human body reacts in various ways to the full moon. Six particularly significant effects are: Sleep disturbances and altered biorhythms. Some people report restless sleep or difficulty falling asleep on full moon nights. Studies show that moonlight can inhibit melatonin production, leading to altered sleep architecture with shorter deep sleep phases.
- Influence on hormonal balance
The Moon can affect the hormonal cycle, especially in women. Some studies suggest that the menstrual cycle may synchronize with the lunar phases, though this varies individually.
- Psychological effects
Some people report increased nervousness, irritability, or emotional sensitivity during the full moon. Scientists suspect this may be due to heightened activity in the autonomic nervous system.
- Increased dreams and sleepwalking
Full moon nights often bring more intense, vivid dreams. Sleepwalking also occurs more frequently during this phase, possibly due to altered sleep quality.
- Metabolism and appetite
There is evidence that the full moon may influence metabolism. Some people experience increased hunger or report digestive issues during this time.
- Effects on wound healing and medical procedures
In traditional medicine, there are theories that wounds heal more slowly during full moon nights. Some studies suggest that surgeries may be riskier during this time, while others find no conclusive link.
The Moon and the Animal Kingdom
Animals are also affected by the Moon—whether in their hunting behavior, reproduction, or navigation. Hunting behavior: Predators like wolves and big cats use moonlight to hunt more effectively. At the same time, prey animals are more cautious and avoid open areas. Breeding cycles: Some animal species, including sea turtles, synchronize their reproduction with lunar phases, which increases the chances of survival for their offspring. Navigation: Many nocturnal animals, especially migratory birds and marine creatures, use moonlight for navigation.
The Moon and Plant Life
Plants also respond to the lunar cycle. Some interesting phenomena include: Altered water content: The full moon increases water transport in plants, which may influence their growth. There is an old farming tradition that suggests planting or harvesting certain plants during the full moon to promote growth. The idea is based on the belief that the lunar cycle, especially the full moon, affects plant vitality. Gardening by lunar phases: The lunar gardening theory suggests that plants should be planted, grown, or harvested according to the lunar phases for optimal results. Pollination: Some flowers only open during the full moon to attract nocturnal pollinators, like moths.
The Underrated Power of the Moon
Although not all connections are scientifically clarified, there is plenty of evidence suggesting that the full moon has profound biological and psychological effects. Both humans and animals, as well as plants, seem to respond to its power. Those who are sensitive to the Moon can take conscious measures—such as calming rituals during full moon nights or adjusting their daily rhythm.