Optical image of a waxing half moon
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Optical image of a waxing half moon
Waxing half Moon. Optical image of a waxing half Moon. The Moon is said to wax when it is increasing in apparent size. This stage in the phases of the Moon is known as the first quarter. The Moons phases start with a new Moon, progress to the first quarter, reach a full Moon, and then continue through to a new moon again. One cycle takes around 28 days. The phases of the Moon are due to its orbit around Earth. When it lies in between the Earth and the Sun, only the unlit side faces us (a new Moon). When the Earth lies between it and the Sun, we see a full Moon. North is at top. For the sequence of the Moons phases, see images R340/526-532
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6447927
© JOHN SANFORD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Half Moon Lunar Moon Planetary Waxing First Quarter Waxing Moon
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the beauty of a waxing half moon, captured through an optical lens. As the Moon gradually increases in apparent size, it enters its first quarter phase, also known as the waxing half moon. The lunar cycle begins with a new Moon and progresses to the first quarter before reaching a full Moon, eventually returning to a new Moon again. This entire cycle takes approximately 28 days. The changing phases of the Moon are intricately tied to its orbit around Earth. When positioned between our planet and the Sun, only the unlit side faces us, resulting in a new Moon. Conversely, when Earth lies between the Moon and Sun, we witness a magnificent full Moon illuminating our night sky. In this particular image, North is oriented at the top for reference. It offers viewers an opportunity to appreciate both the scientific marvels of astronomy and cosmology while admiring one of nature's most enchanting celestial bodies.
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