Basics of the moon cycles
What causes the phases of the moon?
The changing angles of the Earth, Moon, and Sun as the Moon orbits Earth.
Which phase occurs when the Moon is directly between the Earth and the Sun?
New Moon.
How long does it take for the moon to complete one full cycle of phases?
Approximately 29.5 days.
Why do we always see the same side of the moon?
The Moon's rotation period is equal to its revolution period around Earth
Does the moon produce its own light?
No it reflects light from the sun.
What is a "gibbous" moon?
A phase where more than half of the Moon is illuminated, but it is not yet full.
About how long does it take for the moon to move from a new moon to a full moon?
About 14-15 days.
During which phase can a solar eclipse occur?
New Moon
How many phases are in a complete lunar cycle?
8
What is a "crescent" moon?
A sliver of the Moon either before a gibbous or right after
How many days, on average, does each of the 8 phases last?
3-4 Days
During which phase can a lunar eclipse occur?
Full Moon
What does "waxing" mean?
The illuminated portion of the Moon is growing larger, moving toward a Full Moon.
Which phase is illuminated on the right side, but not fully?
Waxing Crescent
If a full moon occurs today, what phase will occur in roughly one week?
Last/Third Quarter.
What does the Third Quarter moon look like to an observer?
Lit on the left side, dark on the right.
What does "waning" mean?
The illuminated portion of the Moon is decreasing, moving toward a New Moon.
Which phase shows a completely illuminated disk?
Full Moon
What is the approximate time between a First Quarter and a Third Quarter moon?
About 15 days.
Can you see the moon during the day?
Yes, it is visible during the day during various phases when it is far enough away from the Sun in the sky.