Lunar Maria

Lunar maria are large, dark, flat areas on the Moon's surface, formed by ancient volcanic activity. They were created when molten rock flowed across the surface and solidified, resulting in smooth plains. The term "maria" comes from the Latin word for "seas," as early astronomers mistakenly thought they were bodies of water. These regions are less cratered than other areas of the Moon, indicating they are younger geological features. The contrast between the dark maria and the brighter, heavily cratered highlands makes them easily visible when observing the Moon from Earth.