Moon Phases

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different stages of illumination of the Moon as seen from Earth, including New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a Waxing Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waxing Crescent Moon is the phase of the Moon where it is less than half illuminated and the illuminated part is increasing.

Front

What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waning Crescent Moon is the phase of the Moon where it is less than half illuminated and the illuminated part is decreasing.

Front

What does 'Waxing' mean in relation to the Moon?

Back

'Waxing' means that the illuminated portion of the Moon is increasing.

Front

What does 'Waning' mean in relation to the Moon?

Back

'Waning' means that the illuminated portion of the Moon is decreasing.

Front

What is the Full Moon phase?

Back

The Full Moon phase occurs when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it appear fully round.

Front

What is the New Moon phase?

Back

The New Moon phase occurs when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and the side of the Moon facing Earth is not illuminated.

Front

What causes the Moon phases?

Back

The Moon phases are caused by the relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, which affect how much of the Moon's surface is illuminated.

Front

What is the First Quarter Moon?

Back

The First Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and is increasing towards a Full Moon.

Front

What is the Third Quarter Moon?

Back

The Third Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated but is decreasing towards a New Moon.