The lunar surface refers to the outer layer of the Moon, Earth's natural satellite. It is characterized by a rugged landscape filled with craters, mountains, and flat plains known as maria. These features were formed by impacts from asteroids and comets over billions of years. The surface is covered in a fine dust called regolith, which is made up of tiny rock particles and minerals. Temperatures on the lunar surface can vary dramatically, ranging from extremely hot during the day to freezing cold at night. There is no atmosphere to protect it from solar radiation or micrometeorite impacts.