"Mysteries Unveiled: NASA's Exploration of Moon Phases"NASA moon phases, satisfied moon phases

The moon's phases refer to the changing appearance of its illuminated portion as viewed from Earth. The moon goes through eight primary phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. These phases are a result of the changing positions of the moon, Earth, and the sun. New Moon occurs when the moon is between Earth and the sun, making the side facing Earth in shadow. As the moon orbits Earth, different portions become illuminated, leading to the various phases.