moon phases 2022

The Moon, Earth's natural satellite, goes through a fascinating cycle of phases, transforming its appearance over a 29.5-day period. Here's a brief overview:

New Moon: The Moon is between Earth and the Sun, appearing as a dark, moonless orb.

Waxing Crescent: A thin, crescent-shaped sliver of the Moon's illuminated side becomes visible.

First Quarter (Half Moon): Half of the Moon's face is illuminated and visible from Earth.

Waxing Gibbous: More than half but not fully illuminated, the Moon is nearing its full phase.

Full Moon: The entire face of the Moon is illuminated and appears as a complete circle.

Waning Gibbous: The Moon begins to shrink from full, with more than half still illuminated.

Third Quarter (Half Moon): Half of the Moon is still visible, but the illuminated side is opposite that of the First Quarter.

Waning Crescent: A thin, crescent-shaped sliver of the Moon's illuminated side remains visible.

The Moon's changing phases are a result of its orbit around Earth and the varying angles at which sunlight strikes its surface. This celestial dance has intrigued humanity for millennia and continues to influence everything from ancient calendars to modern astronomy.