Earth’s surface has been continually reshaped and recycled by geological processes since early in the planet’s history. How, then, can we learn about early Earth? Evidence from objects beyond Earth, such as meteorites, asteroids, comets, and other planets, have helped scientists piece together the story of how the solar system—and Earth—formed 4.5 to 4.6 billion years ago.

The Moon is the closest object to Earth. What is it made of? Where did it come from? How is the Moon’s formation tied to Earth’s history?

In this lesson, you will explore how the Moon formed and whether evidence from the Moon can help us understand Earth’s early history.