Moon Phases

Front

What are the main phases of the moon?

Back

The main phases of the moon are new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, last quarter, and waning crescent.

Front

What does it mean when the moon is said to be 'waning'?

Back

When the moon is waning, it means that the visible portion of the moon is decreasing in size.

Front

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

Back

It takes approximately 29.5 days for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases, known as a lunar month.

Front

What is the significance of the full moon phase?

Back

The full moon phase occurs when the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun, making it fully visible from Earth.

Front

Why do we always see the same side of the moon from Earth?

Back

We always see the same side of the moon because it rotates on its axis at the same rate that it revolves around the Earth.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the moon.

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's light either partially or completely.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning moon?

Back

A waxing moon is when the visible portion of the moon is increasing, while a waning moon is when the visible portion is decreasing.

Front

What is the new moon phase?

Back

The new moon phase occurs when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

How does the moon's orbit affect its phases?

Back

The moon's orbit around the Earth causes different portions of its surface to be illuminated by the sun, resulting in the various phases.