Moon Facts For Kids
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The moon is one of the most fascinating objects in the night sky. It is also the only natural satellite of the Earth. For kids who love learning about space, there are many interesting facts about the moon that can amaze and excite them. In this article, we will share some of the most fascinating moon facts for kids.
1. Size and Distance
The moon is about one-quarter the size of Earth. It is also about 238,855 miles away from us. To put that distance in perspective, if you lay 30 Earths in a row, you would be able to reach the moon. Despite this distance, it has a significant impact on Earth, as it affects our planet’s tides and helps stabilize its axial tilt.
2. Surface
The moon has a bumpy surface that is covered in craters, mountains, and valleys. It also has a thin layer of dust called regolith. Astronauts who have walked on the moon described the regolith as feeling like sandpaper.
3. Phases of the Moon
The moon goes through different phases as it orbits around the Earth. From Earth, we can see a different part of the moon lit by the sun, creating the different phases. The phases of the moon are new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent.
4. Moon Landings
In 1969, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission successfully landed astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin on the moon. They spent about two and a half hours outside the spacecraft and collected rock samples. Since then, there have been five more successful moon landings.
5. Moon Exploration
Several countries have sent spacecraft to explore the moon, including the United States, Russia, China, Japan, and India. There are also plans to send humans back to the moon in the next decade, as part of NASA’s Artemis program.
6. Moon Myths
Throughout history, people have come up with many myths and legends about the moon. For example, some people thought the moon was made of cheese, while others believed it influenced human behavior.
Conclusion
Learning about the moon is fascinating, and there is still much to be discovered. With new missions and advancements in technology, we will continue to learn more about the amazing lunar landscape that decorates our night sky.