TED-Ed: The moon illusion - Andrew Vanden Heuvel

The video explores the moon illusion, where the moon appears larger near the horizon than overhead. Despite historical attempts by great minds, a definitive explanation remains elusive. Theories like atmospheric lensing, Ebbinghaus, and Ponzo illusions are discussed, but each has limitations. Convergence Micropsia, a modern theory, suggests that the brain's perception of distance affects the moon's apparent size. The debate continues as no single explanation fully accounts for the phenomenon.

What is the moon illusion?

• The moon appears smaller when it is near the horizon.

• The moon changes size throughout the night.

• The moon appears larger when it is near the horizon.

• The moon appears larger when it is high in the sky.

Which optical illusion suggests that objects appear larger when surrounded by smaller objects?

• Convergence Micropsia

• Ebbinghaus Illusion

• Atmospheric Refraction

• Ponzo Illusion

Why does the Ponzo Illusion suggest the moon appears larger near the horizon?

• Because the moon is surrounded by smaller objects.

• Because our brain perceives objects near the horizon as larger.

• Because the moon is closer to the Earth at the horizon.

• Because the atmosphere magnifies the moon.

What is Convergence Micropsia?

• A theory that suggests the moon's size is constant.

• A theory that explains why the moon appears smaller when overhead.

• A theory that explains why the moon appears larger near the horizon.

• A theory that suggests the moon changes size due to atmospheric conditions.

What is the current status of the debate over the moon illusion?

• It has been conclusively solved.

• It has been proven to be a myth.

• It is still ongoing with no definitive explanation.

• It is no longer considered a scientific question.