As it orbits the Earth, the Moon appears to move its own diameter (0.5 degrees) eastward every hour against the background stars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Moon moves eastward in its orbit around Earth, and this motion makes it appear to move approximately its own diameter (0.5 degrees) eastward every hour against the background stars. This is due to its orbital motion combined with the rotation of the Earth.

As It Orbits the Earth, the Moon Appears to Move