Moons {satellite}| can be close to planets in circular orbits near ecliptic {regular moon} or far from planets in elliptical orbits out of ecliptic {irregular moon}. Regular moons formed from planetary dust cloud. Irregular moons formed in Kuiper belt or as asteroids. Planet can capture irregular moon when two nearby potential moons interact to slow one down. Planet gravitation must be more than Sun gravitation in that region {Hill sphere}. Orbit shape and tilt relate {Kozai resonance}. Triton is largest irregular moon. Small moons can form from large-moon breakup.
Physical Sciences>Astronomy>Solar System
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Date Modified: 2022.0224