What does selenography mean?
Selenography is the scientific study and mapping of the Moon's surface. It focuses on the Moon's visible and remotely observed physical features, including its craters, maria, mountains, and plains, as well as the arrangement and naming of these landforms. The discipline has developed alongside advances in telescope technology, photography, spacecraft exploration, and digital cartography. Although selenography is closely related to selenology, the broader study of the Moon as an astronomical body, its distinction lies in its emphasis on surface description and mapping. Selenography is therefore relevant not only to astronomers and planetary scientists but also to anyone interested in lunar geography, the history of space exploration, or the practical and intellectual development of mapping unfamiliar worlds.
nounSelenography is the branch of astronomy concerned with describing and mapping the surface of the Moon. It includes the study of the Moon's physical features, such as craters, maria, mountains, and other landforms.
- The branch of astronomy concerned with describing and mapping the surface of the Moon.
"The spacecraft images provided new evidence about the Moon's surface and advanced selenography."
"Early observers developed selenography by recording the positions and shapes of lunar craters and maria."
"Modern satellite missions have transformed selenography by producing detailed maps of the Moon's surface."
Plural is uncommon; it refers to separate studies or bodies of work in selenography.
"The collection contains detailed selenographies produced from several lunar missions."
Selenography is lunar cartography: it turns the Moon's cratered landscape into a map.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does selenography come from?
The word comes from Greek selēnē, meaning “Moon,” combined with -graphia, meaning “writing” or “description.” It developed in the 19th century as the scientific discipline devoted to describing the Moon's surface. Its close relationship with selenology reflects their shared Greek roots and their shared focus on lunar studies.
Related word forms
How selenography is actually used
The word is specialized and formal, normally used in astronomy, planetary science, cartography, and the history of lunar observation.
Easily confused with selenography
Selenography focuses specifically on describing and mapping the Moon's surface, whereas selenology is the broader study of the Moon, including its motion, composition, history, and place in the Solar System.