As winter approaches and the nights become longer, so the moon becomes more important in brightening our nights.

Human beings have been fasciated by the moon since the dawn of time. We have often designated it a female deity – given names to it in various forms – Luna, Diana, Artemis, Selene. Its gravity pulls the tides and its rhythms mark the female menstrual cycle. We have thought it to be made of cheese and we have invented a 'man in the moon from its features'. We see its bright side and worry about its dark side. We have sent spaceships and people to visit, but doubters argue that thr ,moon landing of 1969 is a fairy tale created in the heat of the 'space race' to boost American morale and prestige. In every religion, there are festivals associated with the moon. It has a mystical quality that affects our moods and our spirit. It is associated with madness. Its phases affect plants and all living creatures. The moon is beautiful and inspires art, photography, music and poetry.