Moon & Its Phases

Front

What is the Moon?

Back

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite, orbiting around our planet.

Front

What are the phases of the Moon?

Back

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes the Moon appears to take as it orbits Earth, including new moon, crescent, first quarter, gibbous, full moon, and last quarter.

Front

What causes the Moon's phases?

Back

The Moon's phases are caused by the changing angles of sunlight as the Moon orbits Earth.

Front

What is a lunar mare?

Back

Lunar mare are the dark, flat areas on the Moon's surface formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Front

How does the Moon affect tides on Earth?

Back

The Moon's gravitational pull causes the water in Earth's oceans to bulge, creating high and low tides.

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

How much larger is the Sun than the Moon?

Back

The Sun is about 400 times larger than the Moon.

Front

What is a crescent moon?

Back

A crescent moon is a phase where less than half of the Moon is illuminated, appearing as a thin sliver.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon is a phase where the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun.

Front

What is the first quarter moon?

Back

The first quarter moon is a phase where half of the Moon is illuminated and visible from Earth.