Learning Moon Phase Names

Front

What is a waning crescent moon?

Back

A waning crescent moon is a phase of the moon where less than half of the moon is illuminated, and it is decreasing in illumination.

Front

What is a waxing crescent moon?

Back

A waxing crescent moon is a phase of the moon where less than half of the moon is illuminated, and it is increasing in illumination.

Front

What does 'full moon' mean?

Back

A full moon is a phase of the moon when it is fully illuminated as seen from Earth.

Front

What is a gibbous moon?

Back

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

Front

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

Back

Waxing refers to the period when the moon's illumination is increasing.

Front

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

Back

Waning refers to the period when the moon's illumination is decreasing.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

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

Front

How many main phases does the moon have?

Back

The moon has eight main phases: New, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

What is the difference between waxing and waning phases?

Back

Waxing phases are when the moon is getting brighter, while waning phases are when the moon is getting dimmer.

Front

What is the first phase of the moon cycle?

Back

The first phase of the moon cycle is the New Moon.