Phases of the Moon

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes the Moon appears to have from Earth, including New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon is the phase when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and it is not visible from Earth.

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 and is fully visible from Earth.

Front

What does Waxing mean in Moon phases?

Back

Waxing refers to the period when the Moon is increasing in illumination, moving from New Moon to Full Moon.

Front

What does Waning mean in Moon phases?

Back

Waning refers to the period when the Moon is decreasing in illumination, moving from Full Moon to New Moon.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases?

Back

It takes about 29.5 days for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases.

Front

What is a Crescent Moon?

Back

A Crescent Moon is a phase where less than half of the Moon is illuminated, appearing as a thin sliver.

Front

What is a Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Gibbous Moon is a phase where more than half of the Moon is illuminated but not yet full.

Front

What is the First Quarter Moon?

Back

The First Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and visible from Earth.

Front

What is the Last Quarter Moon?

Back

The Last Quarter Moon is the phase where the opposite half of the Moon is illuminated compared to the First Quarter.