Moon

Front

What is the moon?

Back

The moon is a natural satellite that orbits the Earth, reflecting sunlight and influencing tides.

Front

What are the phases of the moon?

Back

The phases of the moon are the different shapes the moon appears to take as it orbits the Earth, including New, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full, 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, making it invisible 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, appearing as a complete circle.

Front

What does 'waning' mean in relation to the moon?

Back

Waning refers to the phase of the moon when it appears to decrease in size after a Full Moon.

Front

What does 'waxing' mean in relation to the moon?

Back

Waxing refers to the phase of the moon when it appears to increase in size after a New Moon.

Front

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

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 causes the moon to shine?

Back

The moon shines because it reflects sunlight.

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 Quarter Moon?

Back

A Quarter Moon is a phase where half of the moon is illuminated, either the First Quarter or Last Quarter.