Lunar Phases

Front

What are the lunar phases?

Back

The lunar phases 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 the illuminated part is increasing.

Front

What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waning Crescent Moon is the phase where the Moon is less than half illuminated and the illuminated part is decreasing.

Front

What does the term 'New Moon' mean?

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

What does the term 'Full Moon' mean?

Back

A Full Moon is the phase when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, and it is opposite the Sun in the sky.

Front

What is the 1st Quarter Moon?

Back

The 1st Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and is increasing in light.

Front

What is the 3rd (Last) Quarter Moon?

Back

The 3rd Quarter Moon is the phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and is decreasing in light.

Front

How does the Moon's position affect its phase?

Back

The Moon's phase is determined by its position relative to the Earth and Sun, affecting how much of its illuminated side is visible from Earth.

Front

What is the difference between waxing and waning?

Back

Waxing means the illuminated part of the Moon is increasing, while waning means it is decreasing.

Front

What would you see during a lunar eclipse?

Back

During a lunar eclipse, the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to cover the Moon.