A waxing moon refers to the phase of the moon when it is increasing in apparent size, between the new moon and the full moon.
Understanding the Waxing Moon
The term "waxing" describes the lunar phase where the visible surface of the moon, as viewed from Earth, is growing larger each night. This increase in illumination happens during a portion of the lunar cycle.
The Lunar Cycle and Waxing
The lunar cycle, approximately 29 days long, dictates the changing appearance of the moon. According to provided reference information, a waxing moon is any phase of the moon during the lunar cycle between the new moon and the full moon. This means that after the new moon (when the moon is nearly invisible), the illuminated portion gradually increases, marking the waxing phases.
Phases of the Waxing Moon
Here's a simplified breakdown of the waxing phases:
- New Moon: The moon is virtually invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A small sliver of the moon becomes visible.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half of the moon is illuminated, but it's not yet a full moon.
| Phase | Illumination | Position in Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| New Moon | 0% | Start |
| Waxing Crescent | Increasing | Early |
| First Quarter | 50% | Mid |
| Waxing Gibbous | Increasing | Late |
Practical Understanding
Essentially, when you see the moon getting bigger each night after the new moon, you are observing a waxing moon. The process continues until we reach the full moon.
