How many moons does the Earth have?

The story behind the answer

Earth has one natural satellite—the Moon—so the correct answer is 1. A “moon” is a body that orbits a planet long-term; while Earth occasionally captures tiny “mini-moons” for short periods, these are temporary and don’t count as permanent moons. Claims of second moons usually refer to near-Earth asteroids in special orbits (quasi-satellites), which aren’t true moons.

The Moon likely formed after a giant impact early in Earth’s history. It drives ocean tides, stabilizes Earth’s axial tilt (which helps regulate climate), and its phases structure our calendars—the word “month” comes from “moon.” Memory tip: One planet, one permanent Moon, one month.