Fact check: Who Built the Moon

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results:

The Moon was not artificially constructed but formed naturally approximately 4.5 billion years ago. The predominant scientific theory, known as the Giant Impact Hypothesis, explains that the Moon formed when a Mars-sized object called Theia collided with proto-Earth, creating a debris ring that eventually coalesced into the Moon. This theory is supported by multiple lines of evidence, including lunar rock samples showing isotopic similarities with Earth rocks and computer simulations demonstrating the feasibility of such a collision.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints:

The original question omits several important scientific theories about the Moon's formation that have been studied over time, including:

• The capture theory (Moon was captured by Earth's gravity)
• The fission theory (Moon split from Earth)
• The coaccretion theory (Moon and Earth formed simultaneously)
• The multiple asteroid impact model

Recent scientific discoveries from November 2023 suggest that remnants of Theia might still exist inside Earth, adding new dimensions to our understanding of lunar formation.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement:

The question "Who Built the Moon" contains an inherent bias by presupposing artificial construction, which benefits promoters of conspiracy theories like Jim Marrs and David Icke, who have popularized pseudoscientific concepts like the "Hollow Moon" or "Spaceship Moon" hypotheses since 1970. These theories lack credible scientific evidence and contradict extensive data collected through NASA's lunar exploration programs and seismic observations that demonstrate the Moon's natural, solid internal structure. The scientific community, including research institutions and space agencies, benefits from maintaining public trust in evidence-based explanations, while conspiracy theorists often profit from books, speaking engagements, and media attention promoting alternative narratives.