Orange-red full moon over Kirkuk explained as natural optical phenomenon

KIRKUK, Iraq — A full moon that turned orange-red over the city of Kirkuk on Friday evening drew the attention of residents, many of whom stopped to photograph the sight and share the images on social media. The phenomenon was widely referred to locally as a "blood moon." Moon observer and researcher Abu Amir Khalid said the event was not a lunar eclipse but a natural optical effect caused by the atmosphere as the full moon rose or set. He explained that the moon appears larger when near the horizon because of a perception effect known as the "moon illusion," in which the brain compares it to surrounding buildings and trees. Khalid said similar appearances occur several times a year and become more pronounced in areas with high dust or humidity, adding that the phenomenon poses no danger. Photographer Abbas Ali said the moon was clearly visible in a copper hue above the Kirkuk skyline and that many residents paused to photograph and watch it.