Phases of the Moon as It Orbits Around Earth

Cartoon of Moon-Earth Orbit, illustrating the phases of the moon. The cartoon is labeled Moon Earth Sun as viewed from above our solar system.  The Earth sits in the center of eight moons at different places in the lunar cycle.  To the right the Sun shines on the Moon Earth system, creating shadows on the moon, which we view as phases.

Phases of the Moon as It Orbits Around Earth

Phases of the moon progressing from a full moon to a waning cresent. Eight moon phases are represented in all.