Moon Phases

Front

What is the waxing crescent moon phase?

Back

The waxing crescent is the phase of the moon when it is less than half illuminated and is increasing in brightness. It appears as a thin crescent shape.

Front

What is the waxing gibbous moon phase?

Back

The waxing gibbous is the phase of the moon when it is more than half illuminated and is still increasing in brightness. It appears almost full.

Front

How long does the moon cycle last?

Back

The moon cycle lasts about one month.

Front

How many phases does the moon go through?

Back

The moon goes through 8 distinct phases.

Front

What is the last quarter moon phase?

Back

The last quarter (or third quarter) is the phase of the moon when half of the moon is illuminated and it is decreasing in brightness.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is the phase of the moon when it is completely illuminated and appears as a bright, round disk.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon is the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth because the illuminated side is facing away from us.

Front

What is a waning crescent moon phase?

Back

The waning crescent is the phase of the moon when it is less than half illuminated and is decreasing in brightness, appearing as a thin crescent.

Front

What is a waning gibbous moon phase?

Back

The waning gibbous is the phase of the moon when it is more than half illuminated and is decreasing in brightness.

Front

What causes the different phases of the moon?

Back

The different phases of the moon are caused by the changing positions of the moon, Earth, and sun, which affect how much of the moon's surface is illuminated.