how far is the moon away

The Moon is about 384,400 km away from Earth on average, which is about 238,855 miles. Its distance changes because its orbit is elliptical, ranging from about 363,100 km at its closest to about 405,700 km at its farthest.

Quick scoop

If you want the shortest plain answer: about 384,000 km away.

Why it changes

• Closest point: perigee, about 363,104 km away.

• Average distance: about 384,400 km away.

• Farthest point: apogee, about 405,696 km away.

Handy context

Light takes about 1.3 seconds to travel from the Moon to Earth.

If you want, I can also turn this into a one-line social post or a kid- friendly version.