Lunar Cycle ChartComplete Moon Phases Diagram & Guide
Quick Reference
Complete lunar cycle progression
Full cycle from new to new moon
Easy-to-read charts and diagrams
🌙Interactive Lunar Cycle Chart
🌙 Moon orbits clockwise • 📅 29.5-day cycle • 🌍 View from Earth perspective
💡 How to Read This Chart
Start at the New Moon (top) and follow the phases clockwise. Each position shows what the moon looks like from Earth at that point in its orbit. The green arrow indicates the direction of the lunar cycle progression.
📋Complete Lunar Phase Chart Guide
New Moon
Day 0 of cycle
Moon between Earth and Sun, invisible from Earth
Waxing Crescent
Days 1-6 of cycle
Thin sliver appears on right side
First Quarter
Day 7 of cycle
Right half illuminated, also called Half Moon
Waxing Gibbous
Days 8-14 of cycle
More than half lit, growing toward full
Full Moon
Day 14-15 of cycle
Entire face illuminated, maximum brightness
Waning Gibbous
Days 16-22 of cycle
More than half lit, shrinking from full
Last Quarter
Day 22 of cycle
Left half illuminated, Third Quarter
Waning Crescent
Days 23-29 of cycle
Thin sliver on left side, approaching new moon
📈Linear Lunar Cycle Timeline
🎯Using Your Lunar Cycle Chart
🔭Astronomy & Observation
Best for deep sky objects, galaxies, and star clusters
Ideal for observing crater details and lunar features
Perfect for studying terminator line and shadows
Great for lunar photography and landscape shots
🌱Gardening & Agriculture
Plant above-ground crops, leafy vegetables
Plant root vegetables, bulbs, and perennials
Optimal harvest time for maximum flavor
Rest period, pruning, and soil preparation
🎣Fishing & Tides
Spring tides - strongest tidal ranges
Neap tides - weakest tidal ranges
2-3 days before and after new/full moon
📸Photography Planning
Earthshine photography, delicate crescents
Detailed crater shots, terminator features
Landscape moonscapes, moonrise shots
Star trails, Milky Way, deep sky photography
🖨️Downloadable Lunar Cycle Charts
Monthly Chart Links
Chart Applications
Lunar Cycle Chart FAQ
What is a lunar cycle chart?
A lunar cycle chart is a visual diagram showing all 8 phases of the moon in order: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. It displays the complete 29.5-day lunar cycle with timing and visual representations.
How long is a complete lunar cycle?
A complete lunar cycle (synodic month) is 29.53058867 days, or approximately 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 3 seconds. This is the time it takes for the moon to return to the same phase as viewed from Earth.
How do you read a lunar cycle chart?
A lunar cycle chart is read clockwise starting from the New Moon at the top. Each phase shows the moon's appearance, illumination percentage, and position in the cycle. The chart helps track current moon phases and predict future phases for planning activities.