Explore Earth-Moon-Sun Interactions

Front

What is the lunar cycle?

Back

The lunar cycle is the sequence of phases the Moon goes through as it orbits Earth, taking about 29.5 days to complete.

Front

How long does it take for the Moon to orbit Earth?

Back

About 27.3 days.

Front

What causes the different phases of the Moon?

Back

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

Front

What is a solar eclipse?

Back

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light.

Front

What is a lunar eclipse?

Back

A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing Earth's shadow to cover the Moon.

Front

What is the difference between a waxing and waning moon?

Back

A waxing moon is when the visible portion of the Moon is increasing, while a waning moon is when it is decreasing.

Front

What is a full moon?

Back

A full moon occurs when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun, making it fully visible from Earth.

Front

What is a new moon?

Back

A new moon occurs when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Earth.

Front

What is the significance of the dotted circle in diagrams of the Earth-Moon system?

Back

The dotted circle represents the Moon's orbit around Earth.

Front

What is the position of the Moon during a solar eclipse?

Back

The Moon is positioned directly between Earth and the Sun.