What is a moon
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Understanding the Concept of a Moon
Definition and Classification of a Moon
A moon, also known as a natural satellite, is a celestial body that orbits a planet, dwarf planet, or an asteroid3. This definition is widely accepted in the scientific community and helps distinguish moons from other celestial objects like stars and planets. However, some theories suggest that the term "moon" has evolved over time and its original meaning was simply "month," referring to the phases of the Moon that signaled the passing of time1.
The Moon in the Night Sky
The Moon is the most prominent feature in the night sky and has been a subject of human fascination for centuries2. Its light and dark markings have led to various speculations and myths throughout history. The invention of the telescope and its use by Galileo in 1610 provided a clearer understanding of the Moon's surface, dispelling many of these early speculations4.
Exploration and Study of Moons
The Moon is not only the closest celestial body to Earth but also the only one, apart from Earth itself, that humans have visited and walked on4. This proximity has made it a prime target for exploration, leading to significant advancements in our understanding of its features and composition. The study of moons extends beyond our own, as astronomers use tools like the Hubble Space Telescope to search for moons around other planetary bodies, such as Pluto3.
Earth's Moon: Luna
Earth's moon, commonly referred to as Luna, is tidally locked to our planet, meaning the same side always faces us. This phenomenon allows us to see about 59% of Luna's surface due to a slight rocking motion called libration5. The far side of the Moon, often mistakenly called the "dark side," was first photographed by the Soviet Luna 3 probe in 1959, revealing previously hidden features5.
Conclusion
In summary, a moon is a natural satellite that orbits a larger celestial body, such as a planet or asteroid. The Moon has been a focal point of human curiosity and scientific study, leading to significant discoveries about its nature and the broader cosmos. Understanding the Moon's characteristics and its role in our solar system continues to be a vital part of astronomical research.
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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.
On Two Expressions for the New Moon in Latin
Luna silens and luna sicca were created to represent the invisible phase of the moon in Latin, rather than superstitions or popular lore, and had some poetic potential in Augustan poetry.
The Origin of the Moon
The Moon may have accreted at higher temperatures and lower pressures than terrestrial planets, possibly due to a high inclination in its orbit.
Highly CitedOrigin of the Moon in a giant impact near the end of the Earth's formation
The Moon formed near the end of Earth's accumulation, with a smaller, more likely object than previously considered viable, and is iron-poor.
Highly CitedForming a Moon with an Earth-like Composition via a Giant Impact
A giant impact on early Earth could lead to a Moon with a composition similar to Earth's, potentially forming a moon from Earth's mantle.
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