Overview | Phases, Eclipses & Supermoons – Moon: NASA Science
WEBThe Moon is tidally locked with Earth, which means that it spins on its axis exactly once each time it orbits our planet. Because of this, people on Earth only ever see one side of the Moon. We call this motion synchronous rotation.
The Moon's Orbit and Rotation - Moon: NASA Science
WEBDec 2, 2022 · An enduring myth about the Moon is that it doesn't rotate. While it's true that the Moon keeps the same face to us, this only happens because the Moon rotates at the same rate as its orbital motion, a special case of tidal locking called synchronous rotation.
Supermoon Frequently Asked Questions – Moon: NASA Science
WEBApr 5, 2020 · A supermoon occurs when the Moon is at or near its closest point to Earth at the same time it is full. This event makes the Moon look larger and brighter in the sky. Upcoming supermoon dates: April 27, 2021. May 26, 2021. How can I see a supermoon? The Moon rises in the east around sunset.
Phases of the Moon - Moon: NASA Science
WEBOct 4, 2017 · Sometimes we can only see a thin crescent. Other times the Moon seems to disappear entirely. As the bright parts of the Moon appear to change shape during the month, each stage of the change is called a phase, and each phase carries its own name. This chart shows why this happens.
Lunar Science and Exploration Highlights: Recent Updates
WEBAug 1, 2024 · NASA’s LRO Observes 2024 Solar Eclipse Shadow. New Evidence Adds to Findings Hinting at Network of Caves on Moon. NASA, JAXA Bounce Laser Beam Between Moon’s Surface and Lunar Orbit.
Super Blue Moons: Your Questions Answered – Moon: NASA Science
WEBAug 17, 2023 · Do blue moons and supermoons always occur together? No. The term “supermoon” is used to describe a full Moon that occurs within a day or so of perigee, so they happen three to four times a year. About 25 percent of all full moons are supermoons, but only 3 percent of full moons are blue moons.
Overview | Sun & Moonlight – Moon: NASA Science
WEBStudying the Sun’s effects helps us to understand the Moon better. For example, when the Sun sets and night falls on the Moon, some spots cool down faster than others. These temperature variations hint at the rocks that lie on the lunar surface.
The Moon's Orbit and Rotation - Moon: NASA Science
WEBDec 2, 2022 · An enduring myth about the Moon is that it doesn't rotate. While it's true that the Moon keeps the same face to us, this only happens because the Moon rotates at the same rate as its orbital motion, a special case of tidal locking called synchronous rotation.
Overview | Dynamic Moon - Moon: NASA Science
WEBDeep moonquakes, occurring hundreds of miles beneath the lunar surface, are tidal events – they result from the pull of Earth’s gravity tugging and stretching the Moon’s internal structures. Another type of moonquake is caused by the Moon shrinking as it cools ― a process that has been happening since the Moon first formed nearly 4.5 ...
What You Need to Know about the Lunar Eclipse
WEBMay 2, 2022 · A lunar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. In a total lunar eclipse, the entire Moon falls within the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, called the umbra. When the Moon is …