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 moon phase?

Back

A waxing moon phase is when the visible portion of the Moon is increasing, leading up to a full moon.

Front

What is a waning moon phase?

Back

A waning moon phase is when the visible portion of the Moon is decreasing, following a full moon.

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, making it invisible.

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, making it fully visible from Earth.

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What does 'waxing crescent' mean?

Back

Waxing crescent is the phase of the Moon where a small sliver of light is visible, and it is increasing in size.

Front

What does 'waning crescent' mean?

Back

Waning crescent is the phase of the Moon where a small sliver of light is visible, and it is decreasing in size.

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What is a waxing gibbous?

Back

Waxing gibbous is the phase of the Moon where more than half of the Moon is illuminated and is increasing towards a full moon.

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What is a waning gibbous?

Back

Waning gibbous is the phase of the Moon where more than half of the Moon is illuminated and is decreasing after a full moon.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete all its phases?

Back

It takes about 29.5 days for the Moon to complete all its phases, known as a lunar month.