It’s no secret that we love all things Moon related. We think that the more you know about something the more you can love it and that’s why we’re always looking to learn more about all things Lady Luna. We’re starting our mini-series on the Moon Phases with the Waxing Gibbous, Here's all you need to know about this Moon Phase!
The Moon Phase Basics
Although many of us can remember the basics when it comes to the Moon and its phases from primary school science class, it never hurts to do a little recap. First off, remember that the light of the Moon is actually originating from the Sun, as the Moon is just a giant mirror. One side of the moon is always facing the Sun, but not always facing the Earth.
When the moon is between the Earth and the Sun, we do not see any light reflected at all and we call this the New Moon. Slowly, as everything rotates, we begin to see just a bit of illumination on the right side of the Moon, and this is known as the Waxing Crescent. It continues to illuminate until it is half lit and known as the First Quarter. About a week after the First Quarter you have the glory of the Full Moon, but the time between these two phases we have the Waxing Gibbous.
Following the brilliance of the phase begins the “Waning” as the reflected light begins to decrease. Starting with the Waning Gibbous until it reaches half illumination which at that point is called the Third Quarter. Following the Third Quarter we have the Waning Crescent bringing everything full circle until we have the New Moon once again.
Let's Gab About the (Waxing) Gibbous
Did you know that the Waxing Gibbous Moon (the period between the First Quarter and the Full Moon), is actually considered to be a secondary moon phase? That’s why you don’t generally see it as a part of the regular solar calendar.
What makes this phase unique is that the Waxing Gibbous moon can rise anytime between Noon and Sunset, and the large amount of reflected light shines so brightly you can see it even during daylight hours. In other words, this phase is working overtime. You have definitively seen a pale Moon on a bright blue sky before and chances are you were looking at a Waxing Gibbous.
Note: If you need to quickly identify if the Moon is Waxing or Waning remember that the white of Moon will be on the left during Waning and on the right during Waxing.
Waxing Gibbous Symbolism
This phase is all about creativity! The Waxing phases symbolize working toward creation, and with the Waxing Gibbous specifically we correspond this phase to those final stages, where you can see the light at the end of the tunnel, all the pieces big and small are coming together, and you are in the final stretch.
When the Waxing Gibbous is looking down upon you, think of it as a good time to assess all the projects you have on the go, and those which you are just about done. This phase is sending you all the good vibes! Get yourself ready to get into the grind and have it all completed for the Full Moon, where you can enjoy the spoils and the satisfaction of a completed project. You can do it Moonbabes!
