Learning Space: Make a Moon Phases Calendar

NASAJPL Edu5 minutes read

A project led by Ota from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory aims to create a moon phases calendar and calculator, requiring a six-page template, scissors, a pencil, tape, and a brass Brad paper fastener or buttons for assembly. This project helps users determine the current moon phase's position and visibility time by aligning the date on the calendar with the corresponding moon phase, enhancing moon observation experiences.

Insights

  • The moon phases calendar project introduced by Ota from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory involves a hands-on approach, requiring participants to assemble a physical calendar using a template, scissors, and other materials.
  • This project not only serves as a tool to track the moon's phases but also enhances understanding by visually representing the moon's position in the sky relative to its phase, facilitating observation and appreciation of lunar cycles.

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Recent questions

  • How can I create a moon phases calendar?

    To create a moon phases calendar, you will need to print a six-page template on card stock. Then, gather scissors, a pencil, tape, a hole punch, and a brass Brad paper fastener or buttons as an alternative. Color in the moon phases on a wheel, cut out the components, assemble the calendar, and use it to determine the current moon phase and its position in the sky. By aligning the date on the calendar with the corresponding moon phase, you can determine the phase's position and time of visibility, aiding in observing and enjoying the moon's phases.

  • What materials are required for the moon phases calendar project?

    To create the moon phases calendar, you will need card stock to print the six-page template, scissors, a pencil, tape, a hole punch, and a brass Brad paper fastener or buttons as an alternative. These materials are essential for coloring in the moon phases on a wheel, cutting out components, assembling the calendar, and using it to determine the current moon phase and its position in the sky.

  • How does the moon phases calendar help in observing the moon?

    The moon phases calendar helps in observing the moon by allowing you to determine the current moon phase and its position in the sky. By aligning the date on the calendar with the corresponding moon phase, you can easily identify the phase's position and time of visibility. This aids in observing and enjoying the different phases of the moon.

  • What is the purpose of coloring in moon phases on a wheel?

    Coloring in moon phases on a wheel is a crucial step in creating the moon phases calendar. By coloring in the different phases, you are visually representing the cycle of the moon's phases. This visual representation helps in understanding and tracking the changes in the moon's appearance throughout its cycle.

  • How can I determine the position and time of visibility of a moon phase?

    You can determine the position and time of visibility of a moon phase by using the moon phases calendar. By aligning the date on the calendar with the corresponding moon phase, you can easily identify the phase's position in the sky and the time it will be visible. This information is valuable for observing and enjoying the different phases of the moon.

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Summary

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Moon Phases Calendar Project for Observing Moon

  • Ota from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory introduces a project to create a moon phases calendar and calculator.
  • To make the calendar, you need to print a six-page template, preferably on card stock, and gather scissors, a pencil, tape, a hole punch, and a brass Brad paper fastener or buttons as an alternative.
  • The project involves coloring in moon phases on a wheel, cutting out components, assembling the calendar, and using it to determine the current moon phase and its position in the sky.
  • By aligning the date on the calendar with the corresponding moon phase, you can determine the phase's position and time of visibility, aiding in observing and enjoying the moon's phases.
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