What is Lunar Energy??????????

Question

For my science fair project I want to see if the sun leaves any 'energy' after it goes below the horizon. Or if the moon has any energy of its own, like tidal energy and how could I capture this energy?

Answer 1

The gravitational interaction between the earth, sun and the moon results in the sea's tides. The moon reflects sun light but emits no radiation of its own. You could use a tripod and camera to make a 'time exposure' photograph of the moon. That way, you would collect a record of some light reflected from the moon. With several careful photos of the moon, spaced over several hours, you could measure the moon's rotation rate (0.5 degree per hour (I think)). Or if you live near the sea, you could construct a tide meter to indirectly measure the gravitational interactions between earth, moon, and the sun! You could also use a rising tide to drive a turbine and so generate electrical energy that you could store as 'captured' lunar energy. France has had a commercial tidal energy station since the early nineteen-seventies (last century).

Good luck with your project!