sky & cycles · 5 minute lesson
Read the Moon Phase
Understand the illuminated shape, then explore the cycle one phase at a time.
Try the tool →Three small steps
Observe first
Read the current phase and illumination before the invitation beneath them. The percentage describes the visible sunlit portion; the invitation is a reflection prompt.
Turn the practice moon
Move the phase explorer through new, quarter, and full. This is a practice preview, separate from the current sky shown above it.
Find the next turning
Compare the next new and full moons. Choose one moment to notice the sky again; clouds and your horizon may affect what you can see.
Words to recognize
- Waxing
- The visible illuminated portion is growing.
- Waning
- The visible illuminated portion is shrinking.
- Quarter
- A quarter of the cycle has passed; about half the visible disc is illuminated.
try what you learned
At first quarter, how much of the Moon’s visible disc is illuminated?
Take it into practice
- What changed when you moved from waxing to waning?
- What small observation could you make at the next quarter?
Art, sources & approach
Phase calculations use Astronomy Engine. The practice diagram uses a simplified, north-up view; the Moon’s apparent tilt depends on where and when you look. Ritual invitations are Brews and Bloom reflections.
Lesson diagrams and interface illustrations: Brews and Bloom. Diagrams simplify the idea being taught; they are not historical artifacts.
Updated