Phases of the Moon

Phases of the Moon

The MoonPhases of the Moon

The Moon is the only natural satellite of the Earth. It is one of the brightest objects in the sky after the Sun. But the Moon has no light of its own and

reflects the light of the Sun.

Phases of the Moon

Phases of the Moon

As seen from the Earth, the Moon appears to change its shape every day. This is because we see only that part of the moon which reflects the light of the sun.

Phases of the Moon

Phases of the Moon

The side of the moon facing us receives varying amount of sunlight as it is continuously moving around the earth. Its shape varies from a thin crescent

to a full moon. The different shapes of the moon are called phases of the moon.

New MoonPhases of the Moon

When the side of the moon facing the earth does not receive any sunlight and we cannot see the moon, then it is called a new moon.

Crescent MoonPhases of the Moon

When only a small portion of the facing side of the moon get sunlight and becomes visible to us, we call it crescent moon.

Half MoonPhases of the Moon

When half portion of the facing side of the moon becomes illuminated, we call it half moon.

Gibbous Moon Phases of the Moon

When almost three-fourth of the facing side of the moon receives sunlight, it is called gibbous moon.

Full MoonPhases of the Moon

When the entire side of the Moon facing the earth is illuminated,we call it full moon.

Waxing Phase of the Moon

Phases of the Moon

The crescent, half, gibbous and the full moon stages together are knownas waxing phase of the moon.

Waning Phase of the Moon

Phases of the Moon

After this, the cycle reverses and the size of the illuminated facing side of the moon starts reducing. These stages are collectively referred to as waning phase of the moon.

This presentation is a result of my experiences while I was helping out my son with his school assignments and project work. I am happy to share this with other students and their parents. Hope you find this informative and useful. Thank you.

- Prashant Mahajan -

All pictures belong to their original authors, photographers.