Learn the Moon Phases

Sure, everyone knows what a Full Moon is, but do you know what a Waxing Gibbous or a Waning Crescent are? Read this quick reference guide to learn what the phases of the moon are; become a Moon expert in no time!

New Moon: The Moon is not illuminated by direct sunlight.

Waxing Crescent: The visible Moon is partly, but less than one-half, illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is increasing.

First Quarter: One-half of the Moon appears illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is increasing.

Waxing Gibbous: The Moon is more than one-half, but not fully, illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is increasing.

Full Moon: The visible Moon is fully illuminated by direct sunlight.

Waning Gibbous: The Moon is less than fully, but more than one-half, illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is decreasing.

Last Quarter: One-half of the Moon appears illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is decreasing.

Waning Crescent: The Moon is partly, but less than one-half, illuminated by direct sunlight while the illuminated part is decreasing.

Farmers' Almanac Staff

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