New Moon
The Sun and Moon share a similar ecliptic longitude. The illuminated side largely faces away from Earth. In astrological practice, this is often a symbolic moment to name an intention.
THE LUNAR NOTEBOOK
Make a little space
for the Moon.
Follow the lunar cycle from first intentions to quiet reflection. Explore the astronomical timing—and the symbolic traditions people have built around it.
THE NEXT EIGHT TURNING POINTS
Your lunar calendar.
Local times on your device, with UTC below.
Each event happens at one worldwide instant.
ONE CYCLE, EIGHT CHAPTERS
A field guide to lunar phases.
Waxing crescent
The visible illuminated portion increases after new moon. Symbolically, this phase is associated with first steps, experimentation, and gently building momentum.
First quarter
The Moon is 90° ahead of the Sun in ecliptic longitude. About half the disk appears lit. Astrologers often connect this phase with decisions and working through resistance.
Waxing gibbous
More than half the Moon appears illuminated as it approaches full. In reflective practice, this can be a prompt to refine work, notice details, and prepare to share.
Full Moon
The Sun and Moon are about 180° apart in ecliptic longitude. The near side is almost fully illuminated. Symbolically, full moon is associated with visibility, culmination, and contrasting needs.
Waning gibbous
The illuminated portion begins to decrease after full moon. A traditional reflection prompt is to share what you learned and recognize what a recent experience revealed.
Last quarter
The Moon is about 270° ahead of the Sun; roughly half the disk appears lit. Symbolic themes include reassessment, release, and choosing what deserves continued effort.
Waning crescent
The final narrowing crescent precedes the next new moon. Reflection practices often emphasize rest and closure. The Moon itself is not causing a need to withdraw.
Phase names divide a continuous cycle into broad categories. The exact new, quarter, and full moments in the calendar are calculated separately. The Moon diagram is stylized, not an observing image. Read the methodology.