The Changing Moon- Anthony Miller
Why does the moon look different throughout the month?
Why the Moon Appears Different
Have you ever looked up at the sky one night and saw just a tiny sliver and several nights later it appears to be more than half illuminated? What you're seeing is the moon going through its moon cycle. The moon goes through predictable phases as it makes its way around Earth.
Waxing Crescent
A sliver of sunlight reflects off the moon's surface and we see the right side lit up.
Waxing Crescent
The moon's surface is reflecting more sunlight and the right half of the moon appears to be more lit up.
First Quarter
The moon is now lit up 50% on it's right side. It has made its way 1/4 of its way around Earth.