Fact #24
June 22, 2026The Moon is Slowly Leaving Us
Every year, the moon drifts slightly away from Earth by about 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters). This slow drift occurs because Earth's tides transfer a tiny bit of energy to the Moon's orbit over time.
Mini Facts
1
The Moon is currently around 384,000 kilometers from Earth.
2
Its yearly drift is roughly the same speed as fingernails growing.
3
As the Moon moves farther away, Earth's rotation gradually slows, making days feel slightly longer over deep time.
Sources & References
Measuring the Moon's DistanceLaser Beams Reflected Between Earth and Moon Boost ScienceThe Moon is getting slightly farther away from the Earth each year − a physicist explains whyWhy The Moon Is So Critical For Life On Earth Read More: https://www.grunge.com/1179564/why-the-moon-is-so-critical-for-life-on-earth/