Why Does The Moon Apear Differently Each Non-Illuminated Night?

WHY DOES THE MOON CHANGE INTO NON-CIRCULAR SHAPES AT NIGHT?

INTRODUCTION

The Moon’s appearance changes over time. Why is that you ask? Well, the Moon changes shape causing the lunar phases. Most people think that the shadows caused the Moon to change shape but it is scientifically proven that it is the reflection of the Sun that causes it. I am going to explain in more detail, the lunar months/lunar phases, so that you get a clear idea about why the moon looks different every non-illuminated night.

THE MOON’S ORBIT AROUND EARTH

When the Moon orbits us, we can only see the lighted part of it.This is caused by our wonderful blue Earth revolving around the Sun while the Moon tilts on its axis and circles Earth. The Moon rotates at roughly the same speed as it orbits Earth. As a result of this, the same side of the Moon always faces Earth.

PHASES OF THE MOON

There are eight phases of the Moon but most people believe that there are nine counting the other New Moon. Here is a list of all the Lunar Phases in order; new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, last quarter, waning crescent and the cycle goes all over again starting with the non-illuminated new moon.

LUNAR MONTH

A Lunar month is a little different than a normal month because every year it is two days behind. This is caused by the Moon orbiting Earth but when it is still not in line with the Earth and the Sun, it would take two days to catch up. A Lunar month is 29.5 days long although the Moon takes 27.3 days to slowly orbit Earth.

CONCLUSION

I hope this explanation has given you a clearer view of the Moon. I also hope that this writing explanation has fixed up any misunderstandings. If you are still not clear about the Moon, check out this website: http://resources.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/time/moon/facts.htm