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The moon illusion - Andrew Vanden Heuvel

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TEDEd Animation

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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.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

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

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