First shot with the Dwarf3. New Telescope!

The Moon, Earth's only natural satellite, is a familiar celestial body with a diameter of approximately 3,474 kilometers. Its surface is characterized by a stark contrast between the dark, basaltic plains known as maria and the brighter, heavily cratered highlands. The maria, which cover about 16% of the lunar surface, were formed by ancient volcanic activity and are predominantly found on the near side of the Moon. In contrast, the highlands are older and more densely cratered, indicating a longer history of impacts.

The Moon's surface features include numerous craters of varying sizes, formed by impacts from asteroids and comets. Notable craters visible from Earth include Tycho, Copernicus, and Clavius, each distinguished by their size and the rays of ejected material surrounding them. The Moon's synchronous rotation with Earth means the same side always faces us, presenting a consistent view of these features.

The terminator — the line dividing the illuminated and dark halves of the Moon — shifts as the lunar phases progress. This line provides high contrast, highlighting surface details due to the low angle of sunlight. The Moon's surface temperature varies significantly, from about 127°C in sunlight to -173°C in darkness, due to the lack of an atmosphere to retain heat.