How many phases does the Moon have? Fascinating facts from NASA

Photo Credit: NASA

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The Moon has 8 phases that repeat every month. Let’s explore each one.

We cannot see the Moon during this phase. It is called the new moon.

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A small crescent of light appears on the right side. The Moon is getting bigger.

We see half of the Moon lit up. This is the first quarter phase.

In this phase, the Moon is more than half full.

The Moon is fully lit. We can see all of it in the night sky.

The Moon starts to shrink. It’s between full and half.

Half the Moon is lit again, but it’s the opposite side from the first quarter.

A thin crescent is now on the left side. The Moon is nearly new again.

How big is space? NASA expert answers

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Photo Credit: NASA

How many phases does the Moon have? Fascinating facts from NASA

The Moon has 8 phases that repeat every month. Let’s explore each one.

Photo Credit: NASA

We cannot see the Moon during this phase. It is called the new moon.

New Moon

Photo Credit: Flickr

A small crescent of light appears on the right side. The Moon is getting bigger.

Waxing Crescent

Photo Credit: Flickr

We see half of the Moon lit up. This is the first quarter phase.

First Quarter

Photo Credit: Flickr

In this phase, the Moon is more than half full.

Waxing Gibbous

Photo Credit: Flickr

The Moon is fully lit. We can see all of it in the night sky.

Full Moon

Photo Credit: File Photo

The Moon starts to shrink. It’s between full and half.

Waning Gibbous

Photo Credit: Flickr

Half the Moon is lit again, but it’s the opposite side from the first quarter.

Third Quarter

Photo Credit: Flickr

A thin crescent is now on the left side. The Moon is nearly new again.

Waning Crescent

Photo Credit: Flickr

How big is space? NASA expert answers

Photo Credit: NASA