Complete Guide
Moon Phases
A complete guide to the 8 lunar phases — with live tracker and fashion inspired by each phase
Understanding the Lunar Cycle
The lunar cycle lasts 29.53 days — from one new moon to the next. This period, called a synodic month, is the time it takes for the Moon to complete one orbit around Earth relative to the Sun.
The Moon doesn't produce its own light — it reflects sunlight. The phases we observe are simply different viewing angles of the Sun-lit Moon as it orbits Earth.
Phase data sourced from the US Naval Observatory — accurate to within one minute.
Eight Phases
The Complete Cycle
Phase 01
New Moon
The moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, with its dark side facing us. This marks the beginning of the lunar cycle.
New beginnings, fresh starts, setting intentions
Phase 02
Waxing Crescent
A thin crescent of light appears on the right side. The illuminated portion grows each night.
Growth, momentum, taking action
Phase 03
First Quarter
Exactly half illuminated. Despite the name, this refers to the moon being one-quarter through its cycle.
Decision-making, commitment
Phase 04
Waxing Gibbous
More than half illuminated, growing toward fullness. 'Gibbous' means swollen or convex.
Refinement, patience
Phase 05
Full Moon
The entire face is illuminated as Earth sits between the Sun and Moon. Peak luminosity.
Completion, manifestation, clarity
Phase 06
Waning Gibbous
The illuminated portion begins to decrease after the full moon. Still more than half visible.
Gratitude, sharing wisdom
Phase 07
Last Quarter
Half illuminated on the left side. Three-quarters of the way through the lunar cycle.
Letting go, reassessment
Phase 08
Waning Crescent
A thin crescent on the left, shrinking toward the new moon. The final phase before the cycle begins anew.
Rest, surrender, reflection
Precision
How Accurate Are
Moon Phase Apps?
Many apps use simplified algorithms that can be off by hours or even days. Moontians uses data from the US Naval Observatory — the same source referenced by NASA and professional astronomers worldwide.
FAQ
Questions & Answers
How many phases does the moon have?
The moon has 8 named phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Each complete cycle takes approximately 29.53 days.
What is a waning gibbous moon?
A waning gibbous moon occurs after a full moon, when the illuminated portion is shrinking but still more than half the visible surface. It rises after sunset and is visible in the early morning sky.
What is the difference between a solar and lunar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight. A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting Earth's shadow on the Moon.
How long does each moon phase last?
Each of the 8 moon phases lasts approximately 3.7 days. The complete lunar cycle from one new moon to the next takes 29.53 days (a synodic month).
Why do we see different phases of the moon?
Moon phases occur because the Moon orbits Earth while Earth orbits the Sun. As the Moon's position changes relative to the Sun and Earth, we see different portions of its illuminated half.
Collection
Fashion Under Every Phase
Every Moontians product is mapped to one of the 8 lunar phases. Discover clothing and accessories inspired by the moon's eternal cycle.
See the current moon phase, illumination, moonrise and moonset times — all in real time.
Track the moon
in real time.
“Designed Under Every Phase.”