Moon phases: all 8 phases, in order

1. new moon

Moon between Earth and Sun; the lit side faces away, so the sky is moonless. Rises and sets with the Sun.

The cycle's quiet start — in the lunar tradition, the moment for intentions and low-key beginnings.

2. waxing crescent

A thin sliver appears low in the west just after sunset, growing a little each evening.

First visible momentum: plans sketched at the new moon get their first real steps.

3. first quarter

Half the disc is lit (the right half in the Northern Hemisphere). The Moon dominates the evening sky.

The cycle's first checkpoint — friction appears, decisions want making rather than postponing.

4. waxing gibbous

More than half lit and swelling nightly; the Moon hangs in the sky most of the night.

Momentum peaks: refine, push, finish the prep — the visible result is days away.

5. full moon

The Moon sits opposite the Sun and shines all night, rising at sunset and setting at dawn.

The cycle's peak: results become visible, emotions run brighter — a review point, not a starting line.

6. waning gibbous

Still mostly lit but shrinking; rises later each night, lingering into the morning sky.

Time to digest what the peak showed: gratitude, conclusions, first releases.

7. last quarter

Half lit again — the opposite half this time. Rises around midnight, visible in the morning.

The second checkpoint: clear out what didn't work, simplify, settle accounts.

8. waning crescent

A thin fading sliver in the pre-dawn east; the sky darkens toward the next new moon.

Rest and wrap-up — the emptiest, quietest nights of the cycle, best for sleep and stargazing.