Moon Phases and Eclipses

Front

What is the New Moon phase?

Back

The New Moon phase is when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete one revolution around the Earth?

Back

Approximately one month.

Front

What is the Full Moon phase?

Back

The Full Moon phase occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon, allowing the entire face of the moon to be illuminated.

Front

What does the term 'waxing' refer to in moon phases?

Back

Waxing refers to the phases of the moon when it appears to be getting larger, from New Moon to Full Moon.

Front

What does the term 'waning' refer to in moon phases?

Back

Waning refers to the phases of the moon when it appears to be getting smaller, from Full Moon to New Moon.

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 partially or completely.

Front

What is the difference between a total and partial solar eclipse?

Back

In a total solar eclipse, the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon, while in a partial solar eclipse, only a part of the Sun is blocked.

Front

What is the Waxing Crescent phase?

Back

The Waxing Crescent phase is the phase after the New Moon when a small sliver of the moon becomes visible and is increasing in size.

Front

What is the Waning Gibbous phase?

Back

The Waning Gibbous phase occurs after the Full Moon when the moon is still mostly illuminated but is decreasing in size.