Hint: This name is Latin for "seas.”

The dark, flat areas on the Moon’s surface are called "maria," which is Latin for "seas."

Early astronomers mistakenly believed these regions were large bodies of water, but they are actually vast plains formed by ancient volcanic activity.

These areas were created when lava flowed to the Moon’s surface and solidified billions of years ago, following massive impacts that cracked the lunar crust. Maria covers about 16% of the Moon's surface, and most are located on the side of the Moon that faces Earth. Despite their name, maria are completely dry and devoid of water.