Remarkable Lunar Phenomenon observed at Westonsuper-Mare, August 21, 1861

Abstract

AT about 8.30 p.m. a band of silvery light appeared proceeding from the lower margin of the moon, in a line perpendicular to the horizon. The width of this band was equal to the exact apparent diameter of the moon's disk. Slowly the band lengthened, until its upper portion reached beyond the moon to the extent of about two diameters, while the lower limb extended itself to about the length of four diameters, where its foot rested apparently on a light fleecy cloud. In a few minutes a similar band traversed the other at right angles, forming a perfect Latin cross, the brilliant face of the moon occupying the place of intersection. The arms of the cross were respectively about two diameters of the moon's face. The portion of the sky in which this occurred was clear, but clouds were slowly drifting from the west, and in ten minutes began to obscure this beautiful and unusual phenomenon.