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What is a new moon?
A new moon generally can't be seen, except during a solar eclipse. They cross the sky with the sun during the day. The moon's shadow side is toward Earth.
January 2, 2023
What is a full moon?
The full moon, opposite the sun in its orbit, shows us its sunlit side. The moon appears full a couple of days before and after the exact moment of full moon.
January 1, 2023
What is a waxing crescent moon?
A waxing crescent moon shines in the west after sunset, first visible a day or two after new moon with earthshine. It sets after the sun after sunset.
January 1, 2023
What is a last quarter moon?
The last quarter moon appears a week after full moon and a week before new moon. The moon appears half-lit, like half a pie.
January 1, 2023
First quarter moon appears half-illuminated
The first quarter moon is halfway between new and full moon. Half of the moon is illuminated and it's a quarter of the way through it's orbit around the Earth.
January 1, 2023
4 keys to understanding moon phases
As the moon orbits Earth, we see varying fractions of its lighted face. These are the changing phases of the moon. Read four tips to understanding moon phases.
January 1, 2023
What is a waxing gibbous moon?
A waxing gibbous moon is in the sky before it's dark and lights up the early evening. It's more than half lighted, but not quite full. It sets after midnight.
January 1, 2023
What is a waning gibbous moon?
The waning gibbous moon falls between the full and last quarter moon. Watch for it to rise late at night. Or see it in the west in the morning.
January 1, 2023
Closest supermoon of 2022 is July 13
The closest supermoon of the year will be today! On July 13, 2022. The moon will lie 222,089 miles (357,418 km) from Earth.
July 13, 2022
What is a waning crescent moon?
A waning crescent moon can be found in the east before sunrise. It's waning toward new moon, that's when the moon will be between the Earth and the sun.
January 1, 2022
