Earth, Moon and Celestial Cycles

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What are the phases of the moon?

Back

The phases of the moon are the different shapes of the moon as seen from Earth, which include New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Front

How long does it take for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases?

Back

It takes approximately 29.5 Earth days for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases.

Front

What is a New Moon?

Back

A New Moon is the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth because it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun.

Front

What is a Full Moon?

Back

A Full Moon is the phase of the moon when it is fully illuminated and appears as a complete circle in the sky.

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

Back

'Waxing' refers to the period when the moon is becoming more illuminated, moving from New Moon to Full Moon.

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

Back

'Waning' refers to the period when the moon is becoming less illuminated, moving from Full Moon to New Moon.

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What is the First Quarter moon phase?

Back

The First Quarter moon phase occurs when half of the moon is illuminated and is one of the four primary phases of the moon.

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What is the Last Quarter moon phase?

Back

The Last Quarter moon phase occurs when the moon is again half illuminated, but the opposite side compared to the First Quarter.

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What is a Waxing Crescent?

Back

A Waxing Crescent is the phase of the moon when it is less than half illuminated and increasing in illumination.

Front

What is a Waning Crescent?

Back

A Waning Crescent is the phase of the moon when it is less than half illuminated and decreasing in illumination.