Moon phases assist 3.4.0

This application provides a visual exploration of the various phases of the moon, illustrating how these are influenced by the relative positions of the moon, Earth, and Sun.

The software has recently been significantly enhanced to improve its functionality and educational value.

Key questions such as "Why does the moon exhibit different phases?" and "Why does the Sun's altitude vary with the seasons?" are addressed through clear, illustrative diagrams that simplify complex astronomical phenomena.

Users can develop an intuitive understanding of the spatial relationships among the Sun, Earth, and moon by utilizing overhead and celestial sphere representations.

1. What are the positions of the Sun and moon during a full moon?
2. Where is the Sun located when the waning crescent crosses the local meridian?

This is facilitated by an interactive dial that allows for dynamic adjustment of celestial positions to answer these and similar questions.

Note: The sizes and distances of celestial objects depicted are not to scale but have been exaggerated for clarity. Additionally, Earth's orbit is simplified to a circular shape, and the inclination of the moon's orbit has been omitted to streamline comprehension.