Phases of the Moon: All 8 Moon Phases in Order
What the phases of the moon are, the order they come in, why they happen, and when the next ones occur
Updated
The Phases of the Moon in Order
- 1. New Moon
- 2. Waxing Crescent
- 3. First Quarter
- 4. Waxing Gibbous
- 5. Full Moon
- 6. Waning Gibbous
- 7. Last Quarter
- 8. Waning Crescent
As seen from the Northern Hemisphere: the lit side grows from right to left. In the Southern Hemisphere the same phases appear mirrored, lit from the left.
Today's moon phase: Waxing Crescent, 6% illuminated. See today's moon in detail.
What Are The Phases Of The Moon?
The phases of the moon are the different shapes and appearances of the Moon as seen from Earth.These phases occur because of the Moon's position relative to Earth and the Sun as it orbits our planet.
There are 8 phases of the moon:
How many phases of the moon are there? There are 8 main phases in the complete lunar cycle. Some simplified versions recognize 4 primary phases (New, First Quarter, Full, Last Quarter), but astronomically, there are 8 distinct phases that the Moon goes through during its 29.5-day cycle around Earth.
Understanding The Moon Cycle
The moon goes through a complete cycle approximately every 29.5 days, transitioning through eight distinct phases. Each phase represents a different stage in the moon's journey around Earth, and each carries unique energy and meaning. Understanding these phases can help you align your activities, intentions, and spiritual practices with the natural rhythms of the cosmos.
The cycle begins with the New Moon, when the moon is invisible, and progresses through waxing (growing) phases until reaching the Full Moon. After the Full Moon, the moon enters waning (shrinking) phases until it returns to the New Moon, completing the cycle. Each phase offers unique opportunities for rituals and spiritual practices.
1. New Moon
Description
The New Moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle. The moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from our perspective. This phase represents new beginnings, fresh starts, and the planting of seeds for future growth.
Spiritual Meaning
A time for setting intentions, starting new projects, and embracing fresh opportunities. The darkness invites introspection and planning for the cycle ahead.
2. Waxing Crescent
Description
A thin sliver of the moon becomes visible as it moves away from the Sun. This phase symbolizes growth, intention, and the first steps toward manifesting your goals. The moon is growing in light and energy.
Spiritual Meaning
Focus on taking action toward your intentions. This is a period of building momentum and gathering energy for what you wish to create.
3. First Quarter
Description
Half of the moon is illuminated, representing a time of decision-making and overcoming challenges. The moon continues to grow in light, and you can see exactly half of its surface.
Spiritual Meaning
A period of action and commitment. Challenges may arise, but this is when you prove your dedication to your goals. Stay focused and determined.
4. Waxing Gibbous
Description
The moon is more than half illuminated and continues to grow. This phase represents refinement, adjustment, and fine-tuning your efforts. The moon appears almost full but not quite.
Spiritual Meaning
Time to refine your approach and make necessary adjustments. Your goals are taking shape, and you're close to seeing them fully realized.
5. Full Moon
Description
The moon is fully illuminated, appearing as a complete circle in the night sky. This is the peak of the lunar cycle, representing culmination, completion, and the full expression of energy.
Spiritual Meaning
A powerful time for release, gratitude, and celebration. The Full Moon illuminates what needs to be let go and what has come to fruition. Perfect for rituals of release and manifestation.
6. Waning Gibbous
Description
The moon begins to decrease in illumination after the Full Moon. This phase represents gratitude, sharing wisdom, and giving back. The moon is still mostly illuminated but starting to shrink.
Spiritual Meaning
A time for reflection on what you've accomplished. Share your knowledge and express gratitude for the blessings in your life.
7. Last Quarter
Description
Half of the moon is illuminated as it continues to wane. This phase represents release, forgiveness, and letting go of what no longer serves you. The opposite half from First Quarter is now visible.
Spiritual Meaning
Focus on releasing old patterns, forgiving yourself and others, and making space for new growth in the next cycle.
8. Waning Crescent
Description
A thin sliver of the moon remains visible as it approaches the New Moon. This phase represents surrender, rest, and preparation for renewal. The moon is nearly invisible again.
Spiritual Meaning
A time for rest, reflection, and surrender. Allow yourself to slow down and prepare for the new cycle ahead. This is a period of deep introspection.
Why Does the Moon Have Phases?
The Moon makes no light of its own. Half of it is always lit by the Sun, and the phase you see depends on how much of that sunlit half faces Earth. As the Moon orbits Earth, the angle between the Sun, Earth and Moon changes, so the lit portion we see grows and shrinks in a regular rhythm.
The phases are not caused by Earth's shadow. Earth's shadow only falls on the Moon during a lunar eclipse, which can happen only at a full moon. At a new moon the Moon sits roughly between Earth and the Sun, so its sunlit side faces away from us; at a full moon it is on the far side of Earth and we see its whole sunlit face.
One full cycle of phases, called a synodic month, lasts about 29.53 days. That is about two days longer than the 27.3 days the Moon needs to orbit Earth once, because Earth also moves along its orbit around the Sun and the Moon has to travel a little farther to line up with the Sun again.
Moon Phase Dates for the Next 30 Days
| Phase | Date | Time (UTC) | Your local time |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Quarter | 11:48 UTC | Nov 17, 11:48 AM UTC | |
| Full Moon | 14:54 UTC | Nov 24, 2:54 PM UTC | |
| Last Quarter | 06:09 UTC | Dec 1, 6:09 AM UTC | |
| New Moon | 00:52 UTC | Dec 9, 12:52 AM UTC |
For the next full moon and new moon in detail, see when is the next full moon and when is the next new moon, or browse the moon phase calendar.
The Lunar Cycle Overview
The complete lunar cycle, also known as a synodic month, lasts approximately 29.5 days. This cycle is divided into two main periods:
Waxing Phases (Growing)
- • New Moon → Waxing Crescent
- • Waxing Crescent → First Quarter
- • First Quarter → Waxing Gibbous
- • Waxing Gibbous → Full Moon
During waxing phases, focus on building, creating, and manifesting your intentions.
Waning Phases (Shrinking)
- • Full Moon → Waning Gibbous
- • Waning Gibbous → Last Quarter
- • Last Quarter → Waning Crescent
- • Waning Crescent → New Moon
During waning phases, focus on releasing, reflecting, and letting go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the phases of the moon?
The phases of the moon are the different appearances of the Moon as seen from Earth throughout its orbit. There are 8 main phases: New Moon (invisible), Waxing Crescent (growing sliver), First Quarter (half illuminated), Waxing Gibbous (more than half), Full Moon (completely illuminated), Waning Gibbous (decreasing from full), Last Quarter (half illuminated on opposite side), and Waning Crescent (shrinking sliver).
What are the stages of the moon?
The stages of the moon refer to the same concept as moon phases - the different stages of illumination the Moon goes through in its 29.5-day cycle. The 8 stages are: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Each stage represents how much of the Moon's surface appears illuminated from Earth.
How many phases of the moon are there?
There are 8 primary phases of the moon: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Some simplified versions recognize 4 main phases (New, First Quarter, Full, Last Quarter), but the complete cycle includes 8 distinct phases.
How many moon phases are there?
There are 8 primary moon phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.
How long does each moon phase last?
The four principal phases (New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon and Last Quarter) are exact moments in time, although the Moon looks that way to the eye for a day or two. The four in-between phases (the crescents and gibbous phases) each last about 7.4 days. One complete lunar cycle from New Moon to New Moon takes about 29.5 days.
What is the difference between waxing and waning?
Waxing means the moon is growing in illumination (from New Moon to Full Moon). Waning means the moon is decreasing in illumination (from Full Moon to New Moon).
What is a gibbous moon?
A gibbous moon is when the moon is more than half illuminated but not fully illuminated. There are two gibbous phases: Waxing Gibbous (growing toward full) and Waning Gibbous (shrinking from full).
What is a crescent moon?
A crescent moon is when less than half of the moon is illuminated. There are two crescent phases: Waxing Crescent (growing) and Waning Crescent (shrinking).
Why do moon phases occur?
Moon phases occur because of the relative positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. As the Moon orbits Earth, different portions of its surface are illuminated by the Sun, creating the phases we observe.
How often does a full moon occur?
A full moon occurs approximately every 29.5 days, which is the length of one complete lunar cycle (synodic month).
Can moon phases affect human behavior?
While scientific evidence is limited, many cultures and spiritual traditions believe that moon phases can influence emotions, energy levels, and behavior. The full moon, in particular, is often associated with increased energy and emotional intensity.