Full Moon vs. New Moon: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 19, 2023
A Full Moon is when the moon's face is fully illuminated, while a New Moon is when it's completely in shadow and not visible from Earth.
Key Differences
A Full Moon occurs when the Earth is located directly between the sun and the moon, causing the moon to be fully illuminated. Conversely, a New Moon happens when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, causing the moon to be in shadow, making it invisible from the Earth's perspective.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
During a Full Moon, one can observe a bright, fully illuminated lunar disk in the night sky. In contrast, a New Moon is invisible because the side that's illuminated faces away from the Earth, blending the moon with the dark night sky.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
A Full Moon often brings about higher tides due to the gravitational pull of the sun and moon being on opposite sides of the Earth. During a New Moon, the sun and moon are on the same side, also producing higher tides, but the night remains moonless.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Many cultures and traditions associate the Full Moon with myths, folklore, and rituals, often viewing it as a symbol of completeness or fulfillment. The New Moon, on the other hand, represents new beginnings and is often considered a time to set intentions or start fresh.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
After a Full Moon, the moon wanes, becoming less visible each night. Following a New Moon, the moon waxes, gradually becoming more visible and leading to a Full Moon.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Position relative to Earth
Earth is between the sun and the moon
Moon is between the Earth and the sun
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Full Moon and New Moon Definitions
Full Moon
A lunar phase occurring when Earth is between the sun and the moon.
During the Full Moon, the tides tend to be higher.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
New Moon
A period symbolizing new beginnings in various cultures.
She started her project on the New Moon for good luck.
Harlon Moss
Oct 13, 2023
Full Moon
A time when the moon appears as a complete circle in the sky.
Campers enjoyed their night under the Full Moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
New Moon
A lunar phase when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun.
The New Moon is a great time for stargazing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Full Moon
The phase of the moon when it's fully illuminated.
The Full Moon shone brightly overhead.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
New Moon
The beginning of the lunar cycle.
Many cultures set intentions during the New Moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Full Moon
The midpoint of the lunar cycle.
The Full Moon marks the climax of the lunar month.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
New Moon
A time when the illuminated side of the moon faces away from Earth.
The New Moon is also called the dark moon.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 13, 2023
Full Moon
A nocturnal period with the moon's entire disk illuminated.
The werewolf legends are often associated with the Full Moon.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 13, 2023
New Moon
The moon's phase when it's not visible from Earth.
The sky was dark during the New Moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
When does a Full Moon occur?
A Full Moon occurs when the Earth is directly between the sun and the moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Why does a Full Moon shine brightly?
Because the sun's light fully illuminates the moon's surface visible from Earth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
What comes after a New Moon in the lunar cycle?
After a New Moon, the moon goes through waxing phases leading up to a Full Moon.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
Are tides affected by the Full Moon?
Yes, the Full Moon (and New Moon) often bring about higher tides.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is the New Moon visible?
No, the New Moon is not visible from Earth as the illuminated side faces away.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Can you see stars better during a New Moon?
Yes, the darker sky during a New Moon makes it ideal for stargazing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is the Full Moon related to any myths?
Many cultures have myths and folklore related to the Full Moon.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Can eclipses occur during a Full Moon?
Yes, a lunar eclipse happens during a Full Moon when Earth's shadow falls on the moon.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
How does the New Moon affect the night sky?
The New Moon results in a darker night sky, ideal for observing stars and planets.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is the Full Moon's brightness constant?
While generally bright, factors like atmospheric conditions can affect its perceived brightness.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
What phase follows the Full Moon?
The waning gibbous phase follows the Full Moon.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
Are there any rituals associated with the New Moon?
Many cultures and traditions have rituals or practices centered around new beginnings for the New Moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is the dark side of the moon ever illuminated?
Yes, during a New Moon, what we call the "dark side" is actually illuminated.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Do we see different sides of the moon during Full Moon and New Moon?
No, we always see the same side; however, during a New Moon, that side isn't illuminated.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Why is the Full Moon associated with werewolves in legends?
Folklore often links the Full Moon with transformations and heightened energies.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
Why don't we see the moon during its New Moon phase?
The sun illuminates the side of the moon facing away from Earth during the New Moon.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
How long does a Full Moon last?
While the exact Full Moon phase is a moment in time, to the naked eye, the moon appears full for about 3 days.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Can eclipses occur during a New Moon?
Yes, a solar eclipse happens during a New Moon when the moon's shadow falls on Earth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
