How Far Is the Moon From Earth?

<em>Earthrise</em>Earth rising above the lunar horizon, an unprecedented view captured in December 1968 from the Apollo 8 spacecraft as its orbit carried it clear of the far side of the Moon. Taken by astronaut William Anders, this photograph has become known as Earthrise.

The Moon is approximately 384,000 km (238,600 miles) away from Earth, on average. The Moon orbits Earth in an elliptical pattern, which means that it is closer to Earth at some points and farther away at other points.

When the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, known as its apogee, it can be as far as 406,700 km (252,700 miles) away. Conversely, when it is at its closest point, or perigee, the distance decreases to about 356,500 km (221,500 miles). These variations are due to gravitational forces between the Moon and the Earth, Sun, and other planets. Gravitational interactions between the Moon and Earth also influence the rise and fall of ocean tides.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.
Citation Information
Article Title: How Far Is the Moon From Earth?
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 09 June 2025
Access Date: June 15, 2025