Lunar Mare

Lunar maria are large, dark, flat plains on the Moon's surface formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. These basaltic plains filled with lava, creating smooth, expansive areas that contrast with the Moon's rough, cratered highlands. Their formation dates back billions of years, and they are primarily located on the near side of the Moon, making them the most visible features to observers from Earth. The term "maria" means "seas" in Latin, reflecting early astronomers' mistaken belief that these areas were bodies of water. Today, lunar maria provide valuable insights into the Moon's volcanic history and geological evolution.