In geophysical terms, the Moon is a planetary-mass object or satellite planet. Its mass is 1.2% that of the Earth, and its diameter is 3,474 km (2,159 mi), roughly one-quarter of Earth's (about as wide as the …

Dec 29, 2025 · Like Earth, the Moon has a day side and a night side, which change as the Moon rotates. The Sun always illuminates half of the Moon while the other half remains dark.

Jan 3, 2026 · Use our Moon Phase Calendar to find dates and times of the full Moon, new Moon, and every phase in between. Beyond the phases of the Moon, you will also see daily Moon illumination …

Jan 13, 2026 · Particles from Earth’s atmosphere have been carried into space by solar wind and landing on the moon for billions of years, mixing into the lunar soil, according to a new study.

Dec 5, 2024 · A moon is an object that orbits a planet or something else that is not a star. Besides planets, moons can circle dwarf planets, large asteroids, and other bodies. Objects that orbit other …

Sep 7, 2023 · How big is the Moon? The Moon is Earth’s only permanent natural satellite, and it’s the fifth-largest satellite in our solar system. The Moon’s diameter is approximately 2,160 miles (3,475...

2 days ago · The rollout sets the stage for tests and dress rehearsals ahead of NASA's first crewed flight to the moon in more than 50 years. The mission could launch in three weeks.

1 day ago · NASA’s Artemis II rocket arrives at Launch Pad 39B, beginning final prelaunch tests ahead of the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years, set for Feb. 2026.

5 days ago · Moon, Earth’s sole natural satellite and nearest celestial body. Known since prehistoric times, it is the brightest object in the sky after the Sun. Its name in English, like that of Earth, is of …

3 days ago · Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026: See our latest news and updates on NASA's Artemis 2 moon rocket rollout to the launch pad.