Why does Earth's single natural satellite retain the common English noun 'Moon' rather than receiving a formal mythological name?
Answer
It was known and named long before systematic discovery began elsewhere.
Earth's satellite maintains the simple name 'Moon' because it was known and named by common language usage long before the systematic astronomical discovery and formalized naming procedures began for the outer solar system bodies. This contrasts sharply with the moons of Jupiter or Saturn, whose companions were discovered centuries later under structured observation programs, allowing for the imposition of specific, consistent mythological themes.
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