Phases of the Moon

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different appearances of the Moon as seen from Earth, caused by the changing angles of sunlight illuminating the Moon as it orbits the Earth.

Front

What is a Waxing Moon?

Back

A Waxing Moon is a phase where the visible portion of the Moon is increasing, leading up to a Full Moon.

Front

What is a Waning Moon?

Back

A Waning Moon is a phase where the visible portion of the Moon is decreasing, following a Full Moon.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon is the phase when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and its illuminated side is facing away from Earth, making it invisible.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon is the phase when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it fully visible from Earth.

Front

What is a First Quarter Moon?

Back

A First Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and visible from Earth, occurring about a week after the New Moon.

Front

What is a Third Quarter Moon?

Back

A Third Quarter Moon is the phase where the opposite half of the Moon is illuminated compared to the First Quarter, occurring about a week after the Full Moon.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete its cycle?

Back

It takes about 29.5 days for the Moon to complete its cycle through all its phases.

Front

What causes the different phases of the Moon?

Back

The different phases of the Moon are caused by the angle at which we see the lit Moon as it revolves around the Earth.

Front

What does the Moon reflect?

Back

The Moon reflects the Sun's light, which is why it appears bright in the night sky.