FIG. 2. FIRST QUARTER.
At last, after about fifteen days of active increase of bright surface the moon reaches that point where the sun shines directly upon the side presented to the earth, and then it is “full moon.” Of course it must, at this time, be on the side of the earth farthest from the sun so that the sun can shine on it, and at the same time, we can see it.
FIG. 3. BETWEEN FIRST QUARTER AND FULL MOON.
Figure [4] is a small picture of the full moon.
But the moon does not remain full very long, as many of us who delight in moonlight rambles, and boat-rides, know to our sorrow. It soon begins to wane, and then assumes very much the same forms that it presented when on the increase, with this difference; its lighted portion is always turned the other way.
FIG. 4. THE FULL MOON.
It now rises later and later. When it was full it rose at about the time that the sun set, and set about sunrise. But now it rises later and later until at last it rises just before the sun, and is of course soon invisible in his brighter rays.
Figures [5], [6] and [7] will give you an idea of the various phases assumed by the moon when in its wane, or decrease.