Why Does the Moon Have Phases? [Activity - Shadows and Silhouettes]

Why Does the Moon Have Phases? [Activity - Shadows and Silhouettes]

  • Daytime Event
  • Target Audience
  • Child, Teen, Adult
This activity gives your visitors simple 3D models to help demonstrate the science of why the Moon has phases. Many folks harbor misconceptions about the cause of the Moon's phases. By helping your visitors discover their actual cause, by modeling the Moon's shadow in relation to the Sun and our own point of view, you can help create a very rewarding "ah-ha!" moment that cements their understanding of how phases actually work.

Use the activities linked below to extend this model and cover more concepts.

Uploaded: October 20, 2008 / Updated: June 20, 2017

Video

Tutorial: Why Does the Moon Have Phases?

Demonstration of the activity on YouTube.

Activity Key

Daytime Event
Daytime Event
Nighttime Event
Nighttime Event
Inside Venue
Inside Venue
Outside Venue
Outside Venue
star
Target Audience