How to measure the rotation period of the moon?

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SUMMARY

Scientists measure the rotation period of the Moon, known as a lunar day, which is approximately 27 days, 7 hours, and 43.2 minutes. This period is equal to the lunar month due to tidal friction, which has synchronized the Moon's rotation with its orbit around Earth, resulting in the same face always pointing towards Earth. Methods to calculate the lunar rotation include observing the time it takes for the Moon to cross a bright star and measuring angles to specific craters on the lunar surface.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lunar phases and cycles
  • Familiarity with tidal friction concepts
  • Basic knowledge of observational astronomy techniques
  • Experience with angular measurements in astronomy
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for measuring lunar rotation using celestial navigation
  • Explore the effects of tidal friction on celestial bodies
  • Study lunar geology and its impact on surface features
  • Investigate historical methods of lunar observation and measurement
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Astronomers, educators, students in astrophysics, and anyone interested in lunar studies and celestial mechanics.

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anyone know how scientists measure the rotation period of the moon?
thank you!
 
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Do you mean it's own rotation (ie a lunar day) or it's rotation around the Earth (a lunar month)
 
its own rotation (lunar day)
 
im trying to find articles/sources on it..but haven't found any yet
 
The moons day is the same length as the lunar month (27 days 7 hours 43.2min) - that's why it always points the same face toward earth.
This isn't a coincidence, an effect called tidal friction means that gradually the Earth has slowed down the moon's rotation until it is now locked to Earth.
It does rotate a small amount because of small variation in the orbit, you can see this from small changes in the shadows on craters.
 
thanks!
but are there any methods to calculate/measure it?
 
Well the lunar month you just record the time that the edge of the moon crosses some distance bright star and then note the next time it crosses it 28days later.
For the day rotation you could measure the angle to the edge of some crater compared to the edge of the moon.
 
oh okok..
thanks a lot!
 
do u know where i can find info on this??
 

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