Composite image showing Earth appearing to rise over the Moon from the viewpoint of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) spacecraft. The Sahara Desert (tan area) can be seen from Earth. In the foreground, the crater of Compton is seen on the Moon (dark grey). Launched on 18th June 2009, the LRO spacecraft orbits around the Moon. Image published on 18th December 2015.