SKYWATCHERS were treated to a fantastic show last night when the sky was illuminated by a so-called supermoon.
The phenomenon happens when a full moon or new moon coincides with the moon's closest approach to the Earth.
Its orbit around Earth is not a perfect circle; it is elliptical (oval shaped).
That means the distance between the moon and the Earth varies.
Astrologer Richard Nolle first coined the term supermoon in 1979.
He said it was "a new or a full moon that happens when the moon is at or near its closest approach to Earth in its orbit".
A super full moon looks about seven per cent bigger than average because it is closer to Earth.
December Supermoon `
Some stunning shots taken by our readers from around the county.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here