Does the Moon Have an Atmosphere?

True or false: The moon has an atmosphere.

Well, what’s your answer?

If you said “yes,” you’re technically correct. Sort of.

Lamest Atmosphere Ever?

The moon’s atmosphere is really, really thin, so thin in fact it doesn’t even provide any insulation as does Earth’s. That’s one of the reasons the temperature range is so darn uncomfortable on the moon. It ranges from about 260 degrees Fahrenheit in the direct sun to -279 degrees Fahrenheit when it’s dark. Definitely wool coat weather, but you’ll have to leave it at home when the sun comes out and break out the Speedo with plenty of sunscreen.

What’s in the “Air?”

I’m using “air” somewhat loosely because there isn’t any. Technically, the moon’s atmosphere is an exosphere. That’s a nebulous and boundary less region with a breathtakingly low density of whatever is in it. In terms of density, it’s somewhat similar to Earth’s exosphere, which is about 300 miles above us.

In the moon’s exosphere, there is helium, argon, neon, ammonia, methane, sodium, potassium and carbon dioxide. I guess, in theory, discounting the fact you’d die in the process if you took a deep enough breath, you’d start to speak in a high voice. Then again, no one could hear it because there’s hardly any atmosphere to transmit the sound.

See? You can’t even do a classic sound gag by inhaling some helium and breaking into song.