Expert: Ed - 1/19/2006

Question
Howdy!  I presently live on the high prairie of central NM with mtns. visible on horizon in all directions.  As an outdoors photographer, I've always noted where the sun rises and sets throughout the year, even noting exact solstice rise/set locations on horizon when I lived in one place long enough.  The sun is easy; the moon has always confused me.  "Common-sense" would say it should rise & set the same place every day of the year, but it doesn't.  Even more troubling, here on the ranch I've noted that the apparent rise & set locations of the full moon are as far north as the summer sun's - that seems like it CAN'T be! -but I've the photos to prove it.  Would sure appreciate any thumbnail explanation, and/or a pointer where to learn more.  Thanks, Tom Bokalosky, nr. Estancia NM

Answer
Howdy Tom,
This is an interesting question.  A friend of a friend actually answered this online awhile back, and I have found myself quoting him in the past when people ask me this question.  So, I'm going to give you a link to the page for his answer.
http://curious.astro.cornell.edu/question.php?number=379

Below is a similar website.  I think the link I just gave you phrases things more helpfully, but his page has some nice charts at the bottom.
http://curious.astro.cornell.edu/question.php?number=642

The position of the moon is actually a surprisingly interesting topic, by the way.  If you enjoy the subject, check out this link about using what we know about the moon to better understandan Ansel Adams photo:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/life/science/story/0,12996,1554478,00.html

I hope this is helpful.  Keep Looking Up!
--Ed