The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite, orbiting at an average distance of 384,400 kilometers (238,900 miles).
With a diameter of 3,474 kilometers (2,159 miles), the Moon is about one-fourth the size of Earth and the fifth-largest moon in the solar system.
The Moon's changing positions relative to Earth and the Sun create different phases, completing a lunar cycle in about 29.5 Earth days.
The Moon rotates and orbits at nearly the same rate, causing us to always see the same face, known as the near side.
The Moon's surface is marked by craters, mountains, and plains, formed over billions of years through impacts from asteroids and comets.
The Moon lacks a substantial atmosphere, resulting in no weather, air, or wind, and making its surface exposed to space conditions.
Astronauts from the Apollo missions (1969-1972) explored the Moon, collecting samples, conducting experiments, and leaving scientific instruments.
The Moon's gravitational pull causes tidal bulges, resulting in high tides on the side facing the Moon and on the opposite side.
Several countries and space agencies have sent robotic missions to the Moon, aiming to study its geology, composition, and potential resources.
The Moon has inspired human imagination, featuring in myths, legends, and art, and continues to be a subject of fascination and scientific exploration.
Pics Source: Unsplash