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 positions of the Moon, Earth, and Sun.

Front

What is a waxing crescent moon?

Back

A waxing crescent moon is the phase where the Moon is less than half illuminated and is increasing in illumination.

Front

What is a waning gibbous moon?

Back

A waning gibbous moon is the phase where the Moon is more than half illuminated but decreasing in illumination.

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.

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.

Front

How many phases does the Moon have?

Back

The Moon has eight distinct phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is the size of the Moon compared to Earth?

Back

The Moon is smaller than the Earth.

Front

Can people travel to the Moon?

Back

Yes, people from Earth have traveled to the Moon.

Front

What is the phase of the Moon when it is half illuminated?

Back

The phase of the Moon when it is half illuminated is called the First Quarter or Last Quarter.

Front

What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

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