Moon ExactlyPhase 5 of 8
Full Moon Moon
Earth is approximately between the Sun and Moon, revealing almost the entire sunlit lunar hemisphere.
Full Moon
Visualization uses the common Northern Hemisphere orientation. The illuminated side may appear rotated or reversed from other latitudes.
Astronomical definition
Earth is approximately between the Sun and Moon, revealing almost the entire sunlit lunar hemisphere. Phase categories are conventional ranges within a continuous change; the exact quarter and principal phases are mathematical instants.
How to observe it
It rises around sunset and sets around sunrise. Flat frontal lighting makes maria obvious but reduces crater-shadow contrast.
Where it sits in the cycle
The Full Moon occurs at roughly day 14–15. It follows the Waxing Gibbous and leads toward the Waning Gibbous. A complete New-Moon-to-New-Moon cycle averages 29.53 days, so broad stages last several days, but not for identical durations.
Traditional and spiritual meaning
In astrology and some spiritual traditions, the Full Moon is often associated with culmination, clarity, and celebration. These interpretations are matters of belief and cultural practice, not scientifically demonstrated lunar effects.
What happens next?
Illumination continues to decrease as the Moon approaches the Waning Gibbous. The lit side always faces the Sun even as its orientation changes with location and viewing angle.
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions
How illuminated is a Full Moon?
about 99–100%. The value changes continuously except at the exact event.
How long does the Full Moon last?
Phase labels divide a roughly 29.53-day cycle. Intermediate labels usually span about 3.7 days, but orbital speed varies.
What comes after the Full Moon?
The next named stage is the Waning Gibbous.