Here’s a simple way to tell if the moon is growing toward full or waning toward new.
Just remember that “C” is the 3rd letter of the alphabet which is lower (smaller) than “D,” the 4th letter of the alphabet, which is higher (bigger). So when the curve of the moon makes a “C,” it’s waning. And when the curve makes a “D,” it’s waxing.
C = #3 (less than #4)- Waning – losing light toward New Moon
D = #4 (greater than #3)- Waxing – growing in light toward Full Moon
Because you should know.
*spin half a circle and look up again. like if you turn around and look up again it will have changed from C to D
If you stand still and spin 180°, the moon moves from in front of you to behind you. To see it again, you have to crane your neck backward or turn around.
Because “Left” and “Right” are relative to your body, as long as you are standing on your feet in the Northern Hemisphere, the lit side of a Waxing moon will always be on your right (the curve of the D).
You’re missing the reference direction though, if you just spin in a circle and look up again it switches from C to D. Also if you’re near the equator it’s more like a u and n. So this article is kinda useless ?
Since my readers are in the Northern Hemisphere, the C and D trick is a reliable ‘North Star’ for our night skies.
But you’re right that if you head to the Southern Hemisphere, the moon appears ‘upside down’ and the rule flips. And at the equator, it looks more like a bowl or a hat (U or n).
It’s a good reminder that the universe looks a little different depending on where you’re standing.
Wow! Great explanation.
Nice explanation with good clarity.