A Room-Size Model of Lunar Phases

The nature and cause of the phases of the moon are widely misunderstood. Perhaps the problem is a general decline in scientific literacy, or maybe it is the loss of direct and regular observation of the moon in society generally. Many people do not see the moon as a half-illuminated sphere. Adults are often surprised to realize that the moon can be seen during the day, even though young children, who do not have preconceptions, often spot the moon in a bright sky. The procession of the phases of the moon throughout the month is at best a mystery and at worst a boring set of facts to be memorized for an exam. To provide a first-hand, three-dimensional experience of the phases of the moon, I developed a three-dimensional, room-size model and accompanying questions to supplement a textbook, available simulations, and my lectures.