There are eight distinct phases of the moon.
New Moon – The Moon’s un-illuminated side is facing the Earth. The Moon is not visible (except during a solar eclipse).
Waxing Crescent – The Moon appears to be partly but less than one-half illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is increasing.
First Quarter – One-half of the Moon appears to be illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is increasing.
Waxing Gibbous – The Moon appears to be more than one-half but not fully illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is increasing.
Full Moon – The Moon’s illuminated side is facing the Earth. The Moon appears to be completely illuminated by direct sunlight.
Waning Gibbous – The Moon appears to be more than one-half but not fully illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is decreasing.
Last Quarter – One-half of the Moon appears to be illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is decreasing.
Waning Crescent – The Moon appears to be partly but less than one-half illuminated by direct sunlight. The fraction of the Moon’s disk that is illuminated is decreasing.
Today’s Moon Phase
|
Some further information about the moon phase. All links open in a new window. We hope that you enjoy the information.
Moon Phase Calendar – Free daily moon phase application. |
You can use the calendar below to find the moon phase for any given date, just set your month and year and it will generate a new calendar for you with the current moon phases for the specified date.
