Even though the Japanese introduced HD to the world over 30 years ago, it wasn't until just recently that high-def was introduced to the Moon. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and NHK sent an orbiting satellite to the Moon equipped with a high-definition camera. The video is in, and it looks stunning.

Not only do viewers get to see the Moon in all its massive glory, but the fixed wide-angle and telephoto HD cameras on board the KAGUYA spacecraft captured spectacular video of Earth-rise — something that's never been seen in high-def. Forget that IMAX Earth-orbiting video; seeing our big blue marble floating against an empty sea of black is enough to humble anyone. Gaze upon some more pics in the gallery below. — Stephen Schleicher

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency via Oh Gizmo