The Moon
⭐ MasteredThe Moon orbits Earth about every 27 days. It has no air or water, many craters and its gravity causes ocean tides.
Twelve astronauts have walked on the Moon.
All about The Moon
The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite. It orbits our planet about every 27 days and always shows the same face to Earth. The Moon has no air or water, and its surface is covered in craters left by impacts over billions of years.
The Moon's gravity pulls on Earth's oceans and causes tides. Astronauts first walked on the Moon in 1969, and missions have brought back rocks that help scientists learn about its history.
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Real-life uses of The Moon
- Helping sailors and farmers track time with the lunar cycle
- Causing tides that are useful for fishing and harbours
- Acting as a stepping stone for future space missions
Frequently asked questions about The Moon
Does the Moon have its own light?
No. The Moon reflects sunlight, which is why it looks bright at night.
Why do we only see one side of the Moon?
The Moon rotates at the same rate as it orbits Earth, so the same side always faces us.
How far away is the Moon?
About 384,000 kilometres from Earth on average.