The Moon

The Moon

Either an image of light in the dark, or one that triggers a werewolf induced fear, the Moon has been in our skies for around 4.5 billion years. It is the Earth’s only permanent natural satellite and is thought to have formed from a giant impact between left over debris from Earth and a Mars sized body called Theia. The moon causes the Earth to have much larger tides and 24-hour days, without they Moon they would only be 6-8 hours.

Something very strange is happening inside the Moon: 'Our team was genuinely puzzled'

Scientists have long wondered why the two sides of the Moon look so different. Now we know why
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Solar eclipse: 'Weird' double sunrise and devil horns set to dazzle the US

The first solar eclipse of 2025 could deliver one of the year's most stunning sights. Get the camera ready
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Beaver supermoon tonight: Exactly how to see 2024's epic lunar finale

How to see the spectacular Moon event – and what causes it.
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What was the Great Moon Hoax of 1835?

'Fake news' was alive and well 200 years ago.
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Would a planet need a Moon for life to evolve?

The Moon is a lot more than just our neighbour.
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Scientists are planning to build a giant 'bio vault' on the Moon. Here’s why

The extreme low temperatures on the lunar surface make it the ideal place to preserve samples of key terrestrial species.
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Is the Moon radioactive?

Turns out the Moon is pretty inhospitable. Who knew?
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World War Moon: Here’s how a major lunar conflict could soon unfold

Does the Moon actually belong to anyone and if not, how do we go about splitting it up?
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Once-in-a-generation lunar standstill set to decode mysteries of Stonehenge

Experts are carefully watching the once-in-a-generation event to see whether the monument is aligned with the Moon.
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Earthshine tonight: How to see May's otherworldly Moon event

All you need to know about the mesmerising lunar phenomenon.
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Is the Moon shrinking?

A receding Moon will (eventually) have severe consequences for Earth.
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Origin of Earth's 'second moon' discovered

Our ‘second moon’ probably came from our first, but an asteroid sampling mission could put this theory to the test.
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Secrets of our Moon could be lost forever thanks to upcoming lunar missions

Pristine, scientifically interesting regions of the Moon should be given legal protection, experts argue.
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Earthshine tonight: How to see April's stunning Moon event

This April, the Moon is the gift that keeps on giving.
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11 reasons why today’s total solar eclipse is the cosmic event of the century

A total solar eclipse is one of the most profoundly beautiful events in nature, it's a once-in-a-life-time event you’ll never forget.
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The 10 weirdest things that will happen during today's total solar eclipse

If you’re in the path of totality come 8 April, keep an eye out for these strange phenomena.
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The strangest animal behaviour to expect during April's solar eclipse

Steer clear of any giraffes or giant tortoises on 8 April. But do keep an eye on your pooch.
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101 random fun facts that will blow your mind

Our collection of the best interesting trivia covers animals, biology, geography, space and much more.
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Snow Moon 2024: How to see the last full Moon of winter

February’s full Snow Moon marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Here's how you can see it.
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5 very very strange objects aboard the US Moon probe landing today

The US is preparing for its first return to the Moon in 50 years. But there are some things you might not expect on the IM-1 mission.
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Moon illusion tonight: How to see the stunning 'lunar shadows'

Top tips for observing tricks of the light on the Moon throughout the end of February and March.
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