There may be thousands or even more characters in the Marvel universe. Moonglow is one of these unknown characters.
Moonglow is a lesser-known character in the Marvel Universe, primarily associated with the Squadron Supreme, a superhero team created as a tribute to DC Comics’ Justice League. There are actually two characters who have taken on the mantle of Moonglow:
Marvel Moonglow
1. Arcanna Jones (First Moonglow)
Arcanna Jones, the original Moonglow, is a powerful sorceress. She is part of the Squadron Supreme, which exists in an alternate Marvel universe (Earth-712). Her powers allow her to control natural forces, such as manipulating weather, creating force fields, and casting illusions. Arcanna uses her abilities for good, often supporting her team in both combat and strategic scenarios. Her character is also depicted as a mother and family-oriented, adding a unique dynamic to her storylines as she balances her superhero responsibilities with her personal life.
2. Melissa Hanover (Second Moonglow)
Melissa Hanover takes on the Moonglow identity later, but unlike Arcanna, she is more of a minor and morally ambiguous character. Melissa is initially part of the Redeemers, a group created to stop the Squadron Supreme from becoming overly authoritarian. Her main ability is illusion casting, which she uses to deceive both enemies and allies. She joins the Redeemers under false pretenses, hiding her real identity, and later becomes a part of the Squadron Supreme, but her motivations are often more self-serving.
Moonglow’s Powers:
- Illusion Casting: Both versions of Moonglow can project powerful illusions, confusing enemies and manipulating their perceptions of reality.
- Force Fields: Arcanna has the ability to create protective force fields, while Melissa’s use of this ability is tied to her illusions.
- Flight: Both characters have shown the ability to fly, often utilizing their magic or illusion powers.
Personality and Role:
- Arcanna Jones: As the original Moonglow, Arcanna is portrayed as a compassionate and level-headed hero, striving to maintain balance between her superhero duties and her family life. Her leadership and wisdom are key assets to the Squadron Supreme.
- Melissa Hanover: On the other hand, Melissa is more manipulative and self-interested, using her illusion powers to gain power and influence. She is not as heroic as Arcanna and often serves her own agenda.
Moonglow, especially in her original form, brings a mystical edge to the Squadron Supreme, acting as the team’s equivalent of a sorcerer like Doctor Strange in the main Marvel Universe.
For the tier list, you can also find fans’ comments in the reddit content called Looking for rivals for Moonglow (Marvel Comics).