TypeMoons

TypeMoons is a term used to categorize natural satellites, typically in speculative astronomy and science fiction. It refers to a provisional classification describing moons by common structural or orbital traits that they exhibit in theoretical models of exoplanetary systems. The term is not widely established in formal astronomy, but appears in worldbuilding guides and some speculative literature to facilitate discussion of moon diversity.

Classification criteria: TypeMoons are typically described by composition (rocky, icy, metallic), size relative to the planet, orbital regime (close-in, distant, resonant, retrograde, prograde), rotational state (tidally locked or free-spinning), and surface or interior features (volcanic, subsurface ocean, porous crust). Some schemes emphasize dynamical behavior, such as being part of a binary moon system or participating in resonant chains with other satellites.

Archetypes: Common archetypes include TypeR for rocky moon with cratered surface; TypeI for icy moon with potential subsurface ocean; TypeV for volcanic moon with active resurfacing; TypeB for a binary moon system where two moons orbit each other while jointly orbiting the planet. These archetypes are illustrative rather than authoritative.

Observational status and usage: There is no standard observational method to classify real moons as TypeMoons; the concept serves as a hypothetical framework for exomoons, simulations, and fictional worlds. It is used to explore formation scenarios and habitability across diverse planetary systems.

See also: exomoon, natural satellite, planetary system formation, habitability.