Dark Side of the Moon: The term "dark side of the Moon" refers to the hemisphere that is always facing away from Earth, not because it is permanently dark, but because it is rarely seen from Earth due to synchronous rotation.
Moonquakes: The Moon experiences moonquakes, which are seismic tremors similar to earthquakes. They can last for up to 10 minutes and are believed to be caused by tidal forces from Earth.
Lunar Atmosphere: Despite popular belief, the Moon does have a very thin atmosphere called an exosphere. It is so thin that molecules are scattered widely and do not form a dense atmosphere like Earth's.
Moon Dust Smell: Astronauts have described the smell of Moon dust brought back on their spacesuits and equipment as similar to gunpowder or burnt charcoal, possibly due to the lunar soil's high reactivity with oxygen.
Lunar Synchronous Orbit: There is a specific orbit around the Moon called the lunar synchronous orbit (L1), where satellites can maintain a stable position relative to both the Moon and Earth's gravitational fields.
Moon Illusion: The Moon appears larger near the horizon than when it is higher up in the sky, known as the "Moon illusion."
Lunar Maria: The dark patches on the Moon's surface visible from Earth are called lunar maria (singular: mare), Latin for seas.
Lunar Tidal Lock: The Moon is tidally locked to Earth, meaning it always shows the same face to us. This synchronous rotation is why we only ever see one side of the Moon from Earth.