Moon Phases

Front

What are the eight phases of the moon?

Back

New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

The New Moon is the phase when the moon is not visible from Earth because it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

The Full Moon is the phase when the entire face of the moon is illuminated and visible from Earth.

Front

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

Back

'Waxing' refers to the period when the visible portion of the moon is increasing.

Front

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

Back

'Waning' refers to the period when the visible portion of the moon is decreasing.

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

A crescent moon is a phase where less than half of the moon's surface is illuminated.

Front

What is a gibbous moon?

Back

A gibbous moon is a phase where more than half of the moon's surface is illuminated.

Front

How does the moon's position affect its phases?

Back

The moon's phases are determined by its position relative to the Earth and the Sun, affecting how much of its illuminated side is visible.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing gibbous and a waning gibbous moon?

Back

A waxing gibbous moon is increasing in illumination, while a waning gibbous moon is decreasing in illumination.

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.