If the Moon rotates around its axis, why do we see only one side of the Moon? ... Why do we see only one side of the Moon, if the Moon rotates about its axis?

This is why we always see the same side of the Moon. ... And the spherical shape of the Moon hides the area close to the perimeter and we can, at any one time, see only 41% of the Moon's face.

Have you ever noticed that when you look at the moon, you are always looking at the same side? Since the moon rotates on its axis, how can that be? This one will make your head spin...

Have you ever noticed that when you look at the moon, you are always looking at the same side? Since the moon rotates on its axis, how can that be? This one will make your head spin...

Archived thread of Why do we only see one side of the moon? from the physics forums community for science discussion and specifically Why do we only see one side of the moon? ... See for example:

From Earth, you can only see one side of the Moon. This side is termed the near side of the Moon.

Why Do We Only See One Side of the Moon? Have you ever noticed that when you look at the moon, you are always looking at the same side? Since the moon rotates on its axis, how can that be?

Why do we always see only one side of the Moon?" ... Contrary to popular belief, however, the more massive side of the Moon does not point in the direction of the Earth! This might seem like

Because the Moon and Earth are locked gravitationally into a synchronous rotation/revolution pattern.

Why does the Earth only see one side of the Moon? (I know about sychronous orbit, I'm just asking why) ... Why are there more maria on the near side of the Moon?