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 contiguous United States).
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.
Live Science brings you the best moon facts and answers all of your lunar queries, from how did the moon form and whether the moon could ever be pushed from orbit to what is the "man in the...
Current moon phase, including information about its position, illumination, moonrise, and moonset.
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.
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 satellite half a century ago.
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...
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.
Below, find an interactive moon phase calculator showing lunar phases, illumination, moonrise/set times, and special moon events for any location worldwide. View a moon phase calendar or check specific dates with detailed astronomical data including a moon path visualization and a real-time sky position tracker.