Moon & Its Phases

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What is the Moon?

Back

The Moon is a natural satellite that orbits the Earth. It is the fifth largest moon in the solar system.

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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 moon, crescent, first quarter, gibbous, full moon, and last quarter.

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What is a lunar mare?

Back

Lunar mare are the dark, flat areas on the Moon's surface formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

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What is a crescent moon?

Back

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

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What is a gibbous moon?

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

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What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is a phase of the Moon when it is fully illuminated by the Sun, appearing as a complete circle.

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What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon is a phase of the Moon when it is not visible from Earth because the illuminated side is facing away from us.

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

Back

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

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What causes the phases of the Moon?

Back

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

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What is the difference between a quarter moon and a half moon?

Back

A quarter moon is when half of the Moon is illuminated, but it is specifically the first or last quarter phase, while a half moon is often used to refer to the same quarter phases.