Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was known for his extraordinary talent, unforgettable music, and groundbreaking performances. However, beyond his musical genius, there was another side to his artistry that has remained lesser-known but equally fascinating: his deep connection to the moon. Michael Jackson’s relationship with the moon, both symbolically and physically, adds another layer to his enigmatic life and legacy. From his iconic dance move, the moonwalk, to his unique ownership of lunar property, Jackson’s fascination with the moon was profound and enduring.

The Renaming of a Lunar Crater in His Honor
In July 2009, just days after Michael Jackson’s death, Luna Society International made a historic announcement: they would rename a moon crater in Jackson’s honor. The crater, formerly known as “Pasidonius J,” was located in an area of the moon called the “Lake of Dreams.” This large crater, measuring about 13.5 miles across, became the Michael Joseph Jackson crater, a tribute to the late pop star. What made this gesture even more poignant was the fact that the crater was near a plot of land Jackson had purchased on the moon back in 2005, covering an impressive 1,200 acres.

The decision to rename the crater was a way for fans and landowners in the area to honor Michael Jackson’s legacy. This special recognition reflected Jackson’s long-standing fascination with the moon and his symbolic connection to it, which was evident in many aspects of his life and work.

Lunar Property Ownership
In 2005, Michael Jackson became one of the few people in the world to own property on the moon. His purchase of land in the “Lake of Dreams” and a smaller piece in the “Sea of Vapors” was part of his eccentric and visionary pursuits. While many may view lunar property as a novelty, Jackson’s interest in the moon went far beyond just owning land. It symbolized his deep connection to the celestial body and its significance in his artistic journey.

The Moonwalk and Symbolism
Jackson’s famous moonwalk, which became his signature dance move, further amplified his connection to the moon. The moonwalk made its debut in 1983 during a performance on Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever and quickly became one of the most iconic dance moves in history. The smooth, gravity-defying glide he achieved with this move seemed to mimic the movements of someone walking on the moon. Jackson’s use of the moonwalk created a direct connection between his artistic expression and the symbolism of the moon, reinforcing his celestial inspiration.

Moreover, the moon’s imagery was prevalent in Jackson’s work. The official seal of his beloved Neverland Ranch even featured the moon, signifying its importance in his life. The moonwalk was more than just a dance move; it was a manifestation of his lifelong connection to the moon and its symbolism of mystery, wonder, and exploration.

Michael Jackson’s 1988 Autobiography and ‘Moonwalker’
Jackson’s bond with the moon is also reflected in his autobiography, Moonwalk, which was released in 1988. The book offered readers a rare glimpse into his personal life, providing insight into his career, his struggles, and his passions. The title itself, Moonwalk, was symbolic of his journey as an artist and his connection to the moon. Jackson’s Moonwalker video compilation, released in the same year, showcased his remarkable talent and also included various elements of his moon-themed artistry.

The Mystery of the Song ‘Scared of the Moon’
Adding another layer to the mystery of his moon connection, Michael Jackson recorded a song titled Scared of the Moon, which has never been commercially released. The song remains one of Jackson’s more elusive works, adding to the intrigue surrounding his fascination with the moon and the unexplored realms of his creativity.

The UFO Sighting and Interest in Extraterrestrials
Jackson’s interest in outer space and extraterrestrials also contributed to his unique connection with the moon. In his 1995 interview with Michael C. Luckman, author of Alien Rock: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Extraterrestrial Connection, Jackson revealed that he had witnessed a UFO during a flight. This personal experience with the unexplained may have fueled his artistic exploration of the unknown, which was reflected in both his music and public persona.

The Lunar Crater Michael Joseph Jackson
The crater named in Jackson’s honor, located within the Pasidonius Crater group, is part of a select group of lunar craters named after exceptional individuals. Historically, craters on the moon have been named after famous figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton, and Christopher Columbus. Michael Jackson now joins this prestigious list, symbolizing his extraordinary impact on the world of entertainment and beyond.

This particular crater, with a diameter of 13.5 miles, is the largest in the group and is situated near the lake of Dreams. It’s interesting to note that the Michael Joseph Jackson crater is easily visible from Earth, even with a standard telescope. The opportunity to see a lunar feature named after such an iconic figure adds a personal and enduring connection to the moon that fans can appreciate for years to come.

A Tribute to Jackson’s Legacy
The renaming of the lunar crater is a fitting tribute to Michael Jackson’s legacy and his connection to the moon. It stands as a permanent reminder of his impact on the world, both as a performer and as a visionary artist who saw the moon as a source of inspiration. This unique honor is a testament to his influence and the lasting imprint he made on global culture.

Michael Jackson’s love for the moon was not just artistic; it was deeply personal. From his moonwalk to his lunar property ownership, Jackson’s connection with the celestial body remains an integral part of his story. The dedication of the Michael Joseph Jackson crater will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that the King of Pop’s legacy lives on not just on Earth, but in the stars.

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