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, typically lasting about 29.5 days.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

The New Moon is the first phase of the lunar cycle when the Moon is not visible from Earth, often represented by a black circle.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

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

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to complete one full orbit around the Earth?

Back

It takes approximately 27.3 days for the Moon to complete one full orbit around the Earth.

Front

What causes the different phases of the Moon?

Back

The different phases of the Moon are caused by the changing angles of sunlight hitting the Moon as it orbits the Earth.

Front

What is the significance of the Moon's orbit being tilted?

Back

The tilt of the Moon's orbit prevents the Earth from blocking sunlight from reaching the Moon during every full moon.

Front

In what direction does the Moon orbit the Earth when viewed from above the North Pole?

Back

The Moon orbits the Earth in a counter-clockwise direction when viewed from above the North Pole.

Front

What is a Waxing Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waxing Crescent Moon is the phase after the New Moon, where a small sliver of the Moon becomes visible, increasing in size.

Front

What is a Waning Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Waning Gibbous Moon is the phase after a Full Moon, where the illuminated portion of the Moon decreases.

Front

What is the difference between a Solar Eclipse and a Lunar Eclipse?

Back

A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight; a Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon.