What specific surface feature dominates the near side but is notably sparse or absent on the far side of the Moon?

Maria (Dark Plains)

The near side of the Moon is characterized by the presence of extensive, large, dark, relatively smooth plains known as *maria*, which is Latin for seas. These features are vast fields composed of ancient, solidified basaltic lava that welled up from the Moon's interior after major impacts. In stark contrast, the far side lacks these large basaltic flood plains, featuring instead a much higher density of impact craters and rugged terrain. This geological disparity meant that early imagery revealed a profound difference between the two hemispheres, something only fully appreciated once visual confirmation was available.