Resin moon replica

I’m considering casting a resin 3d moon replica and am looking for some pointers. My end goal is a realistic “moon rise over earth” scene I can light up with an LED panel from below for a wake up alarm clock. This is a good image of what I’m looking for, in 3d of course. https://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/8-moonrise-over-earth-detlev-van-ravenswaay.jpg

Im considering purchasing a 3d printed topographic moon lamp to use to create a silicone mold for casting the resin version later. The molds are new to me but I think it’s something I can pull off based on the numerous tutorials out there.

My main question is how to color the moon in a semi realistic fashion, while diffusing the LED lights from below to make it illuminate the moon.

I’ve considered casting the moon in one shot using a translucent light gray color, waiting for it to cure then painting highlights and shadows into the craters. Once I’ve watched the paint dry, I’d pour a thin layer of doming resin over the entire thing to seal it off.

I’ve considered trying to layer different colors of resin into the bottom half of the mold, basically only filling in craters. Once dried I’d put the two mold halves together and finish with the light gray background.

I’ve considered using two different materials to dye the resin in hopes I can get one to sink into the craters creating highlights and or shadows.

I’ve considered using oils or silicone painted on the mold strategically to repel the resin, possibly combining this with the layering technique.

Long story short, I haven’t found much advice online for what I’m looking to accomplish and resin is expensive. Any advice I can get for creating a realistic translucent moon casting would be appreciated.