Lunar Cycle

Front

What is the lunar cycle?

Back

The lunar cycle is the sequence of phases the Moon goes through as it orbits the Earth, taking about 29.5 days to complete.

Front

What are the main phases of the Moon?

Back

The main phases of the Moon are New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon occurs when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it appear round and bright.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon occurs when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and its illuminated side is facing away from the Earth, making it invisible.

Front

What does waxing mean in relation to the Moon?

Back

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

Front

What does waning mean in relation to the Moon?

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 gibbous moon?

Back

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

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

A crescent moon is a phase where less than half of the Moon is illuminated.

Front

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

Back

It takes approximately 29.5 days for the Moon to complete its cycle of phases.

Front

What is the difference between waxing gibbous and waning gibbous?

Back

Waxing gibbous is when the Moon is more than half illuminated and getting larger, while waning gibbous is when it is more than half illuminated and getting smaller.