Mapping features of our Moon

This activity needs a clear night with a Full Moon. It is ideal as homework, a school camp activity or a family science project.

When we look at the Full Moon it is possible to see features that appear as different coloured shades of grey. The large dark areas of the Moon are mostly ‘maria’ which was once thought to be bodies of water but we now know are flat plains. The brighter areas of the Moon are the highlands.

Students are invited to observe and draw the Moon’s features. They then use Moon maps to label what they have seen and to fill in more details.

What you need

  • Download student activity (menu at right)
  • A4 sheet of paper with blank moon circle
  • HB pencil
  • Binoculars if you have them at home
  • Photocopies of Moon map
 

Mapping features of our Moon activity illustration

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