Long before astronomers had the technology to understand the moon, people all over the world developed an unending list of myths and old wives' tales about the mysterious glowing orb in the night sky. From werewolves to Wiccans, the moon inspires fear, superstition and awe among star-watchers everywhere.

Everyone knows werewolves turn beastly in the light of the full moon, but even if you've never been bitten, you might be in danger of a crazy streak once a month. Superstition dictates that people, women especially, may be more prone to bouts of hysteria or unwarranted anger during the full moon. The very word lunacy derives from the Latin word for the moon, luna.

The phenomenon, known as lunar effect or sometimes the Transylvanian hypothesis, is the idea that phases of the moon correspond with delinquency and even depression. Most scientists consider this to be no more than pseudoscience, but researchers still can't seem to tear themselves away from the prospect. Generally unduplicated studies have purported that schizophrenic episodes and epileptic seizures increase during a full moon. Another similarly unverified study connected an increase in homicides with the full moon in Dade County, Fla. Some have even suggested that lunar effect contributed to voters' choices in the 2000 presidential election.

Despite these unsuccessful attempts to establish a connection between the moon and the human psyche, many still persist. A 2000 study by the Finnish National Public Health Institute even found that, among 1,400 suicides studied, people appeared to be more likely to make an attempt on their life during a new moon, particularly in autumn and winter. A researcher involved with the study hypothesized that the link could be due to decreased light levels during this time. Many scientists believe that changes in light levels upset the natural body clock and can contribute to depression.

The root of lunar mythology lies in the ancient past. Almost every society had deities or legendary figures representing the moon, such as the Greek Phoebe, the Roman Luna, the Chinese Chang'e and the Hindu Chandra. Today many see a man in the moon or a man carrying sticks with a dog, the features of which are made out by contrasting dark spots created by lunar seas and craters.

Today, lunar mythology still has a strong place in many religions. Followers of Wicca and other neopagan religions revere the full moon. Wiccans celebrate a monthly festival called Esbat. Esbat is similar to the Christian Sabbath in that it is meant to be a day of relaxation and enjoyment.

Superstitions about the moon can offer plenty of handy advice. One saying states that if you are carrying something in each hand when you first see a full moon, you will never want for anything. Old wives worldwide would suggest you bring a couple knickknacks in each palm wherever you go when the full moon nears, just in case.

With these tough economic times, most of us can't afford to take chances on future wealth. So why not take their advice? After all, as long as you don't live near a werewolf, there's no harm in a little lunar exposure.