The ISS (International Space Station) profile posted on social media this Wednesday (27) a photo of the last full moon of the year seen from space.
The so-called “cold moon” in December gets its name from winter in the northern hemisphere.
According to the ISS post, the photo was taken while the International Space Station was orbiting nearly 270 miles (about 434 km) above the Pacific Ocean.
The final full moon of the year. 🌕
December's “Cold Moon” sits just beyond the blue glow of Earth's horizon as the International Space Station orbited nearly 270 miles above the Pacific Ocean.
More of the Moon from space… https://t.co/6lDUnPT146 pic.twitter.com/j7ZDUZ8pDX
—International Space Station (@Space_Station) December 27, 2023
How does the lunar cycle work?
The lunar cycle is the period during which the Moon passes to complete a series of phases, which range from New Moon to reaching it again.
This cycle is known as the lunar month or synodic month, and has an average duration of approximately 29.5 days.
What does each phase of the moon look like?
- New Moon
At this stage, the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, and the illuminated part of the Moon faces the Sun, making it practically invisible from the Earth. But it is possible to observe its presence in the sky during the day.
- Crescent moon
As the Moon moves away from the Sun, a thin illuminated slice begins to appear, forming a crescent. That's why it's called the Quarter of the Crescent Moon, as it is more visible than before.
- Full moon
At this stage, the Moon is directly opposite the Sun in relation to the Earth, and its illuminated face is fully visible.
The passage of the Full Moon is the brightest phase — and when it is possible to see this celestial body completely illuminated in the night sky.
- Waning Moon
As the Moon continues to “shrink in size,” only a thin illuminated slice remains visible before the Moon completely disappears from Earth's view, restarting the cycle with a New Moon.
(*Published by Marina Motomura)
Source: CNN Brasil
Charles Grill is a tech-savvy writer with over 3 years of experience in the field. He writes on a variety of technology-related topics and has a strong focus on the latest advancements in the industry. He is connected with several online news websites and is currently contributing to a technology-focused platform.
