Cultural Significance of Our Moon

Paper number

IAC-19,D4,2,7,x53367

Author

Mr. Madhu Thangavelu, United States, University of Southern California

Coauthor

Mrs. Michelle Hanlon, United States

Year

2019

Abstract

Our Moon, the Moon of planet Earth, is special. The evolution of planet Earth and life are inextricably linked to our Moon. Our biosphere and our species evolved as our Moon orbited our planet. Recurring geological phenomena, tidal and seasonal patterns, biorhythms of our flora and fauna, and even the axial stability of Earth are all suspect to, or have been attributed to lunar orbital motions. 
Our Moon is one of the first objects that our children recognize and repeat(to inform us of their ability to observe, discern and recollect, perhaps ?) as they train their eyes on the closest, brightest disc that adorns our night skies. Our Moon evokes awe and wonder early on. 
Though our Sun is the giver of energy and life and dictates daily life around the globe(Ra in Egypt or Ra-vi in Sanskrit) our Moon is the object that is imprinted in our psyche very early in our lives. Fascination with our Moon begins early and continues to impact our lives in ways both understood and still to be. While modern scientific dogma stays away from the illogical and alogical, astrologers hold the Moon in high esteem.  
Our Moon is a celestial continent of sorts, that is truly a global ambassador because it orbits so close to Earth, it is visible from all of our continents and latitudes, engages all peoples awe and fascination without reservation, and through dynamic phases, attracts our attention each and every day. 
Half a century ago, our species set forth on an adventure and landed, walked and drove vehicles while conducting scientific exploration on our Moon. Now our Moon beckons us to go back there, not as a symbol of national prowess or military might, not as a marvel of technology, but to simply unite our species with an eye toward global harmony and peace. 
By going back to our Moon, perhaps we can make our Moon a mirror for Earth, alive with life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness that we cherish, and constantly remind us, the stewards of Earth, how precious our biosphere is, all in the middle of the vast dark void of space. 
Could Spaceship Earth have a most benign, silent but ever watchful sister in our Moon ? These ideas are presented as part of the ongoing Moon Village Association discussion.

Abstract document

IAC-19,D4,2,7,x53367.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-19,D4,2,7,x53367.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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