The Moon has long been a source of fascination and wonder, its glowing presence in the night sky a constant reminder of the mysteries beyond our planet. Yet, despite its familiarity, the Moon remains a world of surprises, with secrets waiting to be uncovered and tales to be told. From its volcanic origins to its subtle influence on our daily lives, it is a celestial body that continues to captivate and intrigue us. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the most interesting facts about our lunar companion, and discover the hidden face of the Moon.
Facts about the moon
1. The Moon is drifting away from the Earth.
The Moon moves approximately 3.8 cm away from our planet every year.
2. The Moon was made when a rock smashed into Earth.
The most widely accepted explanation is that it was created when a rock the size of Mars slammed into Earth, shortly after the solar system began forming about 4.5 billion years ago.
3. The Moon makes the Earth move as well as the tides.
Everyone knows that it is partly responsible for causing the tides of our oceans and seas on Earth, with the Sun also having an effect.
However, as the Moon orbits the Earth, it also causes a tide of rock to rise and fall in the same way as water. The effect is not as dramatic as with the oceans, but nevertheless, it is a measurable one, with the solid surface of the Earth moving by several centimeters with each tide.
4. It has quakes too.
Moonquakes are not called earthquakes but moonquakes. They are caused by the Earth’s gravitational influence. Unlike quakes on Earth that last only a few minutes at most, moonquakes can last up to half an hour. They are much weaker than earthquakes, though.
Did you know?
5. There is water on the Moon!
Indeed, this is in the form of ice trapped within dust and minerals on and under the surface. It has been detected on areas of the lunar surface that are in permanent shadow and are therefore very cold, enabling the ice to survive. The water on the Moon was likely delivered to the surface by comets.
6. The Moon is Earth’s only permanent natural satellite.
However, it is the fifth largest natural satellite in the Solar System, and the largest among planetary satellites relative to the size of the planet that it orbits.
7. The Moon is the second densest satellite.
Among those whose densities are known anyway. The first densest is Jupiter’s satellite Io.
8. The Moon always shows Earth the same face.
The Moon is in synchronous rotation with Earth. Hence, its near side is marked by large dark plains (volcanic ‘maria’) that fill the spaces between the bright ancient crustal highlands and the prominent impact craters.
9. The Moon’s surface is actually dark.
Although compared to the night sky it appears very bright, with a reflectance just slightly higher than that of worn asphalt. Its gravitational influence produces the ocean tides, body tides, and the slight lengthening of the day.
10. The Sun and the Moon are not the same size
From Earth, both the Sun and the Moon look about the same size. In fact, the Moon is 400 times smaller than the Sun, but also 400 times closer to Earth.
Summary
In conclusion, the Moon’s glow reminds us of the universe’s vastness and mysteries. Ancient craters and majestic mountains inspire wonder. More so, it influences our planet subtly. Astronauts, astronomers, and dreamers alike are drawn to its allure. Lastly, exploring it reveals magic beyond our reach. Infinite secrets await discovery in space’s darkness.
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