Perigeelle

Perigeelle is a term derived from the French words "peri" meaning near, and "gee" meaning Earth. It refers to the point in the Moon's orbit when it is closest to Earth. This closest approach is known as perigee, and it occurs because the Moon's orbit is elliptical rather than circular. The average distance between the Earth and the Moon is about 384,400 kilometers, but at perigee, this distance can be as close as 363,100 kilometers. The opposite point, where the Moon is farthest from Earth, is called apogee.

The perigee of the Moon can have several effects on Earth. One notable effect is the occurrence of higher-than-average tides, known as perigean spring tides. These tides can be particularly strong and cause coastal flooding. Additionally, the gravitational pull at perigee can influence the Earth's crust, potentially causing minor earthquakes.

The perigee of the Moon is not a constant distance; it varies due to the gravitational influences of the Sun and other celestial bodies. The Moon's perigee distance can change by several thousand kilometers over time. This variation is important for understanding the Moon's long-term orbital dynamics and the Earth-Moon system's evolution.

Perigeelle is a fascinating astronomical phenomenon that highlights the dynamic nature of our solar system. It serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between celestial bodies and the subtle yet significant effects they have on each other.