Mondstreifen

Mondstreifen (literally "moon stripes") is a term used in German-language sources to denote patterns or features characterized by parallel light and dark bands reminiscent of the Moon’s appearance. It is not a single scientific concept but a cross-disciplinary expression whose meaning depends on context.

In astronomy and planetary science, Mondstreifen is used informally to describe stripe-like bands that can appear on the Moon’s disc under specific illumination and viewing geometries, typically resulting from the interplay of lunar terrain and shadows along the terminator. It is not an official classification, and the term may be found mainly in descriptive writing or field notes rather than in formal lunar nomenclature.

In photography and cinematography, Mondstreifen refers to a motif or technique involving linear bands of light and shadow conveyed by moonlight. This can occur naturally when moonlight is diffused by atmospheric conditions or man-made silhouettes, or deliberately produced through lighting design to create a striped aesthetic.

In design and art, Mondstreifen may describe decorative patterns using alternating light and dark stripes inspired by lunar imagery. The motif is popular in textiles, wallpapers, and graphic art to evoke nocturnal or celestial themes.

Origin and usage: the phrase is German and translates to "moon stripes." Its adoption is informal and regional, with no standardized definition. See also lunar terminator, moonlight effect, banding.