What are the 8 phases of the moon?

The 8 moon phases in order are: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter (Last Quarter), and Waning Crescent. The full lunar cycle (synodic month) takes approximately 29.5 days.

How long is a lunar cycle?

A lunar cycle (synodic month) is approximately 29.53 days from new moon to new moon. There are about 12.37 lunar cycles per year. Some months have two full moons - the second is called a Blue Moon.

A supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon being near perigee (its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit). The moon appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon at apogee. There are typically 3-4 supermoons per year.

How does the moon phase affect tides?

The moon's gravity causes ocean tides. Spring tides (highest highs, lowest lows) occur during new and full moons when the sun, Earth, and moon align. Neap tides (smaller range) occur during quarter moons when the sun and moon are at right angles. Tidal range also varies with the moon's distance from Earth.

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