Phases of the Moon and Eclipses

Photo courtesy of Moon Connection

Phases of the Moon (in order):

New Moon
Waxing Crescent
First Quarter
Waxing Gibbous
Full Moon
Waning Gibbous
Last Quarter
Waning Crescent







Solar Eclipse Friday, January 15, 2010

Photo courtesy of Reuters

Eclipses:

Solar Eclipse - Moon passes between the sun and earth, covering the sun. This occurs only during the New Moon. We had one yesterday, January 15, 2010.

Lunar Eclipse - Moon passes behind the earth, blocking the sun's rays from shining on the moon. This happens only during the Full Moon. The next one is December 21, 2010.

Tip: NEVER look at a lunar eclipse or solar eclipse. It could cause permanent blindness or serious damage to your eyes.