Moon Phases

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What is the Full Moon?

Back

The Full Moon is a phase of the moon when it is fully illuminated by the sun, appearing as a complete circle in the sky.

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What are moon phases?

Back

Moon phases are the different shapes of the moon as seen from Earth, which change in a cycle lasting about 29 days.

Front

Why does the Moon have phases?

Back

The Moon has phases because it reflects light from the sun, and sometimes a shadow is cast on it, making us see only part of it.

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How long does the moon phase cycle last?

Back

The moon phase cycle lasts about 29 days.

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 sun is shining on the side of the moon that is away from us.

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What is a First Quarter Moon?

Back

A First Quarter Moon is a phase where half of the moon is illuminated and visible from Earth, occurring about a week after the New Moon.

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What is a Last Quarter Moon?

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A Last Quarter Moon, also known as the Third Quarter, is a phase where the opposite half of the moon is illuminated compared to the First Quarter.

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What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

Back

A Waning Crescent Moon is a phase where less than half of the moon is illuminated, and it appears to be shrinking.

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What is a Waxing Gibbous Moon?

Back

A Waxing Gibbous Moon is a phase where more than half of the moon is illuminated and is growing towards a Full Moon.

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What causes the Moon to appear to change shape?

Back

The Moon appears to change shape due to its position relative to the Earth and the Sun, affecting how much of its surface is illuminated.