Moon phases are the changing sunlit portion of the lunar disk as seen from Earth. The repeating synodic cycle averages about 29.5 days and passes through New Moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, Full Moon, waning gibbous, last quarter and waning crescent.
What causes the phases
Half of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun at any time outside an eclipse. As the Moon orbits Earth, our view of the illuminated half changes. New Moon occurs near the Sun–Moon conjunction; Full Moon near their opposition. The first and last quarter correspond to approximately ninety-degree Sun–Moon separations.
Astrological meanings of waxing and waning
Many modern lunar guides use waxing phases as symbols of development, first quarter as engagement with obstacles, Full Moon as visibility and waning phases as evaluation or release. These associations are interpretive practices, not established effects of phase on personality or success. Cultural and ritual meanings of the phases differ across traditions.
Natal phase and personal timing
An individual’s natal phase is found from the angular separation between the natal Sun and Moon. Predictive readers may also compare an upcoming phase with natal planets or chart houses. The phase, Moon sign and eclipse status are different measurements and should never be conflated.
Explore lunar astrology
Return to Moon Astrology to connect natal Moon placements, lunar phases and recurring cycles.