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 …

May 21, 2026 · The Moon makes Earth more livable, sets the rhythm of ocean tides, and keeps a record of our solar system's history. Explore NASA lunar science here.

The Moon shows phases as it orbits Earth. Each phase offers a good opportunity to observe the Moon.

Explore the current phase of the moon, its rise and set times, nightly motion across the sky, and discover lunar features with our interactive map. Stay informed about the celestial movements above.

May 15, 2026 · Understanding Moon Phases and the Lunar Cycle First, the Moon is on a 30-day cycle when it makes its orbit around the Earth. Actually, the entire trip takes 29.53 days, to be exact, and is …

Track the moon phase today with our interactive moon phase calculator. Get details on the current moon phase and the next full moon phase.

With our 2026 Moon Phase Calendar, you'll find the current Moon phase for tonight—plus, all the phases of the Moon for each day of the month.

Dec 3, 2024 · What is the moon made of, and how did it form? Learn about the moon's violent origins, how its phases shaped the earliest calendars, and how humans first explored Earth's only natural …

3 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 …

May 23, 2023 · Learn how Earth's moon formed, how its orbit affects Earth's tides, why solar and lunar eclipses happen and the history of lunar exploration.