For most people, the Moon is purely the most prominent and familiar object in the night sky. However, for some people, the Moon is much more sinister. It is believed that a Full Moon has strange effects on people and animals. The word "lunatic" comes from the Greek word for the Moon (Luna), suggesting that a lunatic is somebody that has been sent mad by the Moon. There are even people who fear the Moon, suffering from a phobia called Selenophobia. They simply can't bear to look at the Moon and doing so makes them feel ill. This phobia feels worse when the Moon is full. Animals are said to behave strangely when there is a Full Moon, feeling agitated and nervous. And, of course, there are werewolves! Well, there aren't really werewolves but legend has always associated a Full Moon with the presence of werewolves. Some police forces report an increase in crime on nights when there is a Full Moon, but there is no real scientific evidence that "moon madness" actually exists. Some people may have a negative feeling about the Moon simply because it is the natural opposite of the Sun - the Sun provides heat and light and naturally cheers people. The Moon is visible when the Sun is not, and when this happens, it is usually cold a dark, things that people don't like.

Below is a list of dates of Full Moons between 2008 and 2012. If it's a clear night, get a pair of binoculars and have a look at it. You will be able to make out the higher plains and lower seas ("maria") and even some of the larger impact craters!