Why do we see only one side of the moon always?

The phenomenon of seeing only one side of the moon, known as tidal locking, results from a combination of gravitational interactions and the moon’s rotational and orbital characteristics. The moon’s rotation period on its axis matches its orbital period around the Earth, causing the same side, the near side, to constantly face our planet. This synchronization emerged through gravitational forces exerted during the moon’s formation and subsequent evolution.

As the moon initially rotated, gravitational interactions with the Earth caused tidal forces that led to the gradual slowing of its rotation. Over eons, these tidal forces acted as a brake, aligning the moon’s rotation with its orbit until the rotational period matched the orbital period, resulting in a tidally locked state. Consequently, the gravitational influence of Earth essentially “locks” one hemisphere of the moon in a perpetual gaze towards us, while the other, the far side or dark side, remains hidden from direct view.

This unique celestial arrangement has fascinated observers throughout history and is a testament to the intricate dance of gravitational forces shaping the dynamics of celestial bodies in our solar system.