Moon Phases Diagram: Complete Lunar Cycle Chart
Interactive diagrams and visual guides showing all 8 moon phases, their orbital positions, and the astronomical relationships that create the lunar cycle we observe from Earth.
Current Moon Phase: First Quarter
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45% illuminated • See its position in the diagram below
Interactive Lunar Cycle Diagram
The moon orbits Earth counterclockwise, creating the 8 distinct phases we observe from Earth.
Linear Moon Phase Progression
Lunar Cycle Timeline
Complete cycle: 29.53 days • Each phase: ~3.7 days
Earth-Moon-Sun Relationship
New Moon
Moon between Earth and Sun - dark side faces Earth
Full Moon
Earth between Sun and Moon - illuminated side faces Earth
Why We See Different Phases
- •The Moon doesn't produce its own light - it reflects sunlight
- •As the Moon orbits Earth, different portions are illuminated by the Sun
- •We see different amounts of the Moon's lit surface depending on its position
- •The cycle repeats every 29.53 days as the Moon completes one orbit
Understanding Moon Phase Diagrams
Reading the Circular Diagram
- •Center Sun: Represents our solar system's light source
- •Moon Positions: 8 key points in the 29.5-day orbit
- •Counterclockwise: Direction of Moon's actual orbit
- •Phase Names: Traditional astronomical terminology
Key Diagram Features
- •Accurate Timing: Each phase lasts approximately 3.7 days
- •Visual Representation: Emojis show Earth perspective
- •Orbital Mechanics: Based on real astronomical data
- •Educational Tool: Perfect for learning and teaching
Diagram Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a moon phases diagram?
A moon phases diagram is a visual chart that shows all 8 phases of the lunar cycle and how they appear from Earth. It illustrates the relationship between the Sun, Earth, and Moon positions that create each phase, making it easier to understand the astronomical mechanics behind lunar cycles.
How long does it take for the moon to go through all phases?
The complete lunar cycle takes approximately 29.53 days, also known as a synodic month. Each of the 8 main phases lasts about 3.7 days on average, though the transitions are gradual and continuous rather than abrupt changes.
Why do moon phases occur in a specific order?
Moon phases occur in a specific order because the Moon orbits Earth counterclockwise (when viewed from above Earth's North Pole). As it moves through this predictable orbit, different portions of its sunlit surface become visible from Earth, creating the consistent sequence of phases we observe.
What causes the different moon phases?
Moon phases are caused by the changing positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon in space. The Moon doesn't produce its own light but reflects sunlight. As the Moon orbits Earth, we see different amounts of its illuminated surface depending on the angle between the Sun, Earth, and Moon.
See Today's Phase Position
Want to see where today's moon phase fits in these diagrams? Check our homepage for real-time lunar information and track the current position in the lunar cycle.
View Current Moon Phase