What phase follows the third quarter in the lunar cycle?

What phase follows the third quarter in the lunar cycle?

• A. New Moon
• B. First Quarter
• C. Full Moon
• D. Waning Crescent

Answer: (D)

After the third quarter, the Moon’s illuminated face is getting smaller as it moves toward the New Moon. That stage is called the waning crescent. In the lunar cycle, the lighting progresses from a half-illuminated phase after the third quarter to a thin crescent and then to a completely dark New Moon. The waning crescent is the visible sliver of light that gradually fades, often seen in the pre-dawn sky, as the Moon completes its orbit and starts the cycle anew.

After the third quarter, the Moon’s illuminated face is getting smaller as it moves toward the New Moon. That stage is called the waning crescent. In the lunar cycle, the lighting progresses from a half-illuminated phase after the third quarter to a thin crescent and then to a completely dark New Moon. The waning crescent is the visible sliver of light that gradually fades, often seen in the pre-dawn sky, as the Moon completes its orbit and starts the cycle anew.