Scientists say a giant impact knocked off the raw ingredients for the moon off the primitive molten Earth and into orbit.
Related Topics: Earth, Apollo Program, Moon Phases
Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.
Latest about moon phases
What is the moon phase today? Lunar phases 2025
Reference See what moon phase it is tonight and find out when you can see the rest of the moon phases for 2025.
The new moon of March 2025 creates a partial solar eclipse this weekend
This new moon of March 2025 will create a partial solar eclipse visible in the northeastern part of North America, much of Europe and Russia.
Lunar eclipses 2025: When, where & how to see them
Reference There are two lunar eclipses in 2025. Our guide tells you how you can see them and when the next lunar eclipse will occur.
What are lunar eclipses and how do they occur?
Reference Lunar eclipses occur when Earth blocks the sun and casts a shadow over the surface of the moon. We explore the different types of lunar eclipses here.
What is a blood moon?
Reference It may look spooky, but a blood moon is just a trick of the light. Here we explain this phenomenon and tell you how and where to see the next one.
Full moon calendar 2025: When to see the next full moon
Reference The full moon happens about once a month. Find out when.
New moon calendar 2025: When is the next new moon?
Reference Discover what a new moon is and when the next new moon will occur with our new moon 2025 guide.
How to photograph a supermoon
Use this guide to prepare you for the supermoons in 2025, and learn how to photograph them at their closest approach.
