The Moon (natural satellite)

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite, orbiting our planet at about 384,400 kilometers (238,855 miles) away. It influences tides, stabilizes Earth's tilt, and has a rocky, cratered surface shaped by impacts and volcanic activity. The Moon doesn’t emit its own light but reflects sunlight, which creates the phases we observe—from new moon to full moon. Its gravitational pull causes ocean tides and has helped shape Earth's environment over millions of years. The Moon has been a focus of exploration, missions, and scientific study, providing insight into planetary formation and the history of the solar system.