What are the lunar seas?
The lunar seas refer to the vast dark plains on the Moon. There is no water on the Moon and the name “Seas” is therefore a misnomer.
How are the lunar seas named?
Seas in Latin are “Mare” (pronounced “Mahri”) and its plural is Maria (pronounced “Mah-ri-ah”). Lunar seas are denoted by the word Mare followed by the Latin name for each sea.
Is there any significant difference between the near side of the Moon and the far side?
Yes. The far side of the Moon does not have any “Seas” like in the near side.
Why is the last quarter of the Moon less brilliant than the first quarter?
In the last quarter the eastern portion of the Moon is shining. Since no bright seas cover most of this portion, the last quarter is less bright than the first quarter.