What type of planet is the moon?

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite. At about a quarter of Earth's diameter (comparable to the width of Australia), it is the largest natural satellite in the Solar System relative to the size of the planet, the fifth largest satellite in the Solar System overall, and is larger than any known dwarf planet.

Is the moon an example of a satellite?

Likewise, the moon is a satellite because it orbits the Earth. Usually, the word "satellite" refers to a machine that is sent into space and moves around the Earth or another body in space. The Earth and the Moon are examples of natural satellites.

Is the moon a moon or planet?

Facts about the Moon The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite and the fifth largest moon in the solar system. The Moon's presence helps stabilize our planet's wobble and moderate our climate. The Moon's distance from Earth is about 240,000 miles (385,000 km).

What defines a moon?

A moon is defined as a celestial body that orbits a planet, including the eight major planets, dwarf planets, and minor planets. The first moons discovered beyond Earth's moon were the Galilean moons of Jupiter, named after the astronomer and discoverer Galileo Galilei.

Is the moon a planet or a star?

The moon is neither a planet nor a star. Instead, it is a satellite.

Is the moon a satellite of the earth?

Most people would say that Luna is the earth's satellite. Not quite. A satellite is an object whose motion is controlled by the object it orbits. The Sun's gravitational pull on Earth or Luna is greater than the force they exert on each other.

Are there any moons in the solar system?

Most of the major planets—all except Mercury and Venus—have moons. Pluto and some other dwarf planets, as well as many asteroids, also have small moons. Saturn and Jupiter have the most moons, with dozens orbiting each of the two giant planets. Moons come in many shapes, sizes and types.

How big is the Moon compared to the Earth?

The moon has a diameter of 2,160 miles with a surface area of 14,658,000 square kilometers and it would take 81 moons for them to fit into the earth. Is the moon a planet or a star?