How to calculate the distance from the moon using an object like a penny (As well as knowing the diameter of the moon) using trig or geometry.

Question

abb0t · Answer

Use a ruler.

dumbcow · Answer

distance = diameter of moon / diameter of penny

assuming the penny completely covers a full moon when you hold it up .... the distance objects are away from each other are proportional to their relative sizes

example: the sun is 400 times larger than moon but they appear to be same size (eclipse) because the sun is 400 times farther away

dumbcow · Answer

wait i forgot you need to know how far you are holding the penny away from you

--> distance to moon / distance to penny = diameter of moon/ diameter of penny

anonymous · Answer

thank you dumbcow, you are a saint.

dumbcow · Answer

yw ... but not a saint

anonymous · Answer

my bad.

anonymous · Answer

Is there any way you can do this using trig? What other possible measurements could you make?