Waning Gibbous
Following Full Moon, the Waning Gibbous phase shows the lit fraction gradually shrinking as the Moon moves toward 270°.
- Position in cycle
- 6 of 8
- Phase Angle Range
- 225° to 270° Moon-Sun Phase Angle
- Illumination Range
- 95% down to 50%
Orbital Geometry
The Moon passes opposition and begins returning toward the Sun in longitude.
Observational Notes
Rises after sunset and remains visible into the morning sky after sunrise.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between waxing and waning?
- Waxing means illumination is increasing; waning means illumination is decreasing.