Selenography (/sɛlɪˈnɒɡrəfi/) is the study of the surface and physical features of the moon. The word is derived from the Greek selene, meaning "moon," and -graphia, meaning "writing." The spelling of Selenography comes from the combination of the prefix seleno-, meaning "moon," and the suffix -graphy, meaning "writing" or "study of." The IPA phonetic transcription of the word demonstrates the pronunciation and stress of each syllable, allowing for accurate communication and pronunciation of this word in academic and scientific settings.
Selenography is the branch of science that deals with the study and mapping of the moon's surface and features. Derived from the Greek words "selene" meaning moon and "grapho" meaning to write or describe, it literally translates to "writing about the moon".
Selenography is concerned with the accurate representation and depiction of the various physical features, such as craters, mountains, valleys, and plains, that are present on the moon's surface. The purpose of this discipline is to create detailed maps and charts of the lunar landscape, facilitating the identification and categorization of the moon's geological formations.
The study of selenography has evolved over the years with advancements in space exploration technology. Initially, telescopic observations were used to establish the first detailed maps of the lunar surface. However, it was with the advent of space missions that high-resolution photographs and data were obtained, enabling scientists to create more precise lunar atlases.
Selenography also encompasses the study of the moon's topography, geology, and the relation between its surface features and the broader understanding of the moon's formation and history. It aids in understanding the processes that have shaped the moon over time, including impact cratering, volcanic activity, and the unique geological characteristics specific to the lunar environment.
In summary, selenography is a scientific discipline that focuses on the descriptive and systematic examination of the moon's surface, involving the mapping and study of its various features and formations, contributing to our understanding of the moon's geological history.
A description of the moon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "selenography" is derived from the Greek word "selēnē", meaning "moon", and "graphia", meaning "description" or "writing". Therefore, "selenography" refers to the study or description of the moon's surface.