Q: Why does the moon appear larger when it is on the horizon than when it is directly overhead? In considering your answer, keep in mind that the actual size of the moon and its distance from the earth are invariable.
A: A decade or so ago I read a report of an experiment on this subject by a group of psychologists. Their conclusion was surprising because it did took into account no physical feature of the horizon, such as whether it consisted of buildings, mountains or a line of trees. Their explanation for the “moon illusion” is that all humans have an innate conception that the distance to the universe is shorter out to the horizon than directly above us; thus, the moon appears larger because it is conceived to be closer!
Q: When, where and how was the raglan sleeve introduced into the design of clothing?
A. Fitzroy Somerset, the First Baron Raglan, was a general in the British Army. During the Battle of Waterloo, in 1814, he received so severe a wound that it required an amputation of his left arm. After his return to London, he discovered that the seams of his shirts and sweaters rubbed his amputation scar and were painful. Off to his tailor, who created the new sleeve form in which the seams were not in contact with his scar. Of course, it was named after the Baron and not his employee who actually created the new style.
Contributed by Norman Sissman