Definition of a moon
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Definition of a Moon
Celestial Body Orbiting a Larger Object
A moon, also known as a natural satellite, is a celestial body that orbits a larger object, such as a planet, dwarf planet, or an asteroid. This definition is widely accepted in the field of astronomy and is used to classify various natural satellites within our solar system and beyond2.
Historical and Cultural Context
The term "moon" has historical roots that extend beyond its astronomical definition. Originally, the word "moon" was derived from the word "month," as the phases of the Moon were used to measure the passage of time in stages1. This historical context highlights the Moon's significance in human culture and timekeeping.
Exomoons and Stellar Metamorphosis
In the context of exomoons, or moons orbiting planets outside our solar system, the definition becomes more complex. According to the general theory of stellar metamorphosis, stars are considered young, hot exoplanets. This theory suggests that planets like Earth, Jupiter, and Uranus could be considered "moons" of the Sun, challenging traditional astronomical classifications1. This perspective calls for a more consistent and accurate use of terminology in the scientific community.
Cultural Significance in Mythology
The Moon also holds significant cultural meanings in various mythologies. In Chinese literary works, the Moon is often associated with femininity, while in Japanese culture, it is considered a male deity. These cultural interpretations are influenced by social features, geography, and historical context3.
Conclusion
In summary, a moon is a natural satellite that orbits a larger celestial body, such as a planet or asteroid. This definition is rooted in both scientific and historical contexts, with additional cultural significance in various mythologies. The evolving understanding of exomoons and stellar metamorphosis further enriches the complexity of defining what constitutes a moon.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Exomoons in Stellar Metamorphosis
The term "exomoons" should be re-defined to align with the general theory of stars as young hot exoplanets, rather than straying from the original meaning of "moon" as an object orbiting a larger object.
PreprintNASA Computational Case Study: Where Is My Moon?
This study demonstrates how astronomers use the Hubble Space Telescope to search for moons of Pluto using its data, and highlights the importance of using data-driven methods for planetary exploration.
Gender Analysis of Moon in Chinese and Japanese Mythology
The moon in Chinese literature represents the female, while in Japanese culture it is a male god, influenced by culture, social features, and geography.
Moon could be a planet under new definition
The new definition proposes that the moon could be considered a planet in its own right, if it meets the criteria of being more or less round, massive enough to have accreted or flung away objects in its orbital neighborhood, and not just round and massive enough to have a ring of objects orbiting it
Origin of the Moon
The origin of the Moon is a subject of ongoing research, with various theories and alternatives on its formation, including the giant impact hypothesis and various collision theories.
THE EVOLUTION OF THE MOON.
The Moon is a differentiated body with a crust, a solid mantle, and an interior core, possibly partially molten, and has rapidly evolved compared to Earth and Mars.
Effects of Full-Moon Definition on Psychiatric Emergency Department Presentations
Different definitions of "full moon" may influence psychiatric emergency department presentations, with discrepancies in findings in previous studies.
Observational Study