The Moon may appear cold and barren from Earth, but its climate is more complex and varied than ever imagined. With temperatures varying from scorching hot days to freezing nights, a deeper understanding of the lunar temperature can help us unravel the mysteries of the Moon.
The Moon’s temperature is influenced by several factors, including its distance from Earth, its axial tilt, the lack of atmosphere, and the diurnal temperature range. These factors often cause vast temperature fluctuations across the Moon’s surface.
During the full moon phase, when the Moon is closest to Earth, the lunar surface can reach temperatures of 127 degrees Celsius (261°F). Conversely, when it is in its crescent phase and furthest from Earth, temperatures can drop to -173 degrees Celsius (273°F).
Interestingly, the Moon experiences a more extreme diurnal temperature range than our own planet. This is due to the Moon’s lack of atmosphere and axial tilt, which allows for heat to quickly escape into space during the lunar day, and cold to seep in during the lunar night.
In addition to these factors, the lunar surface itself plays a role in creating different temperature variations. Dark regions of the Moon, known as maria, have temperatures approximately 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) higher than the bright, highlands on the Moon due to their increased absorption of solar radiation.
Understanding the temperature on the Moon’s surface can aid future exploration and the planning of human settlements there. Studying lunar temperatures also helps us learn more about how our planet’s climate and environments might have been like billions of years ago.
