The moon is the only satellite of our planet, deprived of the atmosphere, a stone block of rounded shape, which is the second brightest luminary for the Earth. In the entire solar system, the moon is the fifth largest satellite. Appearing on the vault of heaven almost every night, it constantly changes its visible shape and appearance, and the 4 phases of the moon comprise a 28-day cycle, called the lunar month. For many millennia, people watched the night luminary, and discovered a lot of interesting moments.
Some facts about the Moon will be interesting for every inquisitive person, and it is worth telling more about them.
The moon is not just a satellite
It is generally accepted that the moon is a satellite. However, astronomers point to the fact that the Moon is a small planet in shape, size and characteristics. And consequently, it forms a system of two planets with the Earth, just as Pluto, which was previously considered a planet, also created a pair system with the satellite Charon. Scientists also point out that the Earth and the Moon were formed from the same material.
Perhaps the moon separated from the Earth in a collision with some celestial body in the early stages of planet development. The Earth's satellite has a rounded shape, but not spherical. The shape is rather closer to the ellipse, the elongated parts of which are directed to and from the Earth. This is due to the effects of Earth's gravity. There are other interesting facts that can be said about the earth's satellite:
- The same side of the moon is constantly visible from the surface of the earth. After all, the Moon rotates around its axis during the same time during which it rotates around the blue planet;
- The reverse side of the moon was seen relatively recently, with the help of spacecraft;
- The reverse side of the moon is dotted with mountains, while turned towards the Earth is smoother. The force of gravity has led to the fact that the crust on the visible side of the satellite is thinner and more even;
- The light of the moon at night seems bright. However, 206264 moons are required to provide the same light intensity as from the sun during the day;
- Earth has another satellite - a secret. This is the Cruitney asteroid, which moves in synchronism with the planet, in resonance with it. It carries out a revolution around the blue planet in 770 years;
- Lunar craters are very ancient - their age is 3-4 billion years. In the absence of atmosphere and geological activity, they are perfectly preserved;
- And there is water here - it is frozen in some craters. And beneath the lunar surface there is also liquid;
- Earthquakes on the moon do happen. But they are mainly caused by Earth's gravity;
- The moon also affects the planet, the tides are carried out due to its influence. Satellite gravity is quite palpable;
- The moon is moving away from the Earth, and perhaps after some time it will fly into outer space. Today, the distance to it is 400 thousand km, but initially the distance was only 22 thousand km.
Thus, the Moon, which can be seen almost every clear night, is an amazing cosmic body that has a lot of its own puzzles.Astronomers and researchers continue to study the satellite, and in the near future a new mission is planned, and the person will again be on its surface.
Indeed, more than 40 years have passed since the last visit to this heavenly body closest to the Earth, it is time to repeat this feat. Moreover, new technologies will simplify this event, because the system that piloted the landing of the device that delivered people to the moon for the first time was easier than any modern iPhone. It is likely that the new moon landing, and indeed the journey itself, will be easier.
