"Phases of the Moon in the Southern Hemisphere: A Visual Guide"

Phases of the Moon in the Southern Hemisphere: A Visual GuideIn the southern hemisphere, the Moon's phases appear opposite to those in the northern hemisphere due to its perspective from below the equator. The cycle still starts with the New Moon, where the side illuminated by the Sun is facing away from Earth. As the days progress, a waxing crescent appears, followed by the First Quarter (half of the Moon's face is illuminated). The waxing gibbous phase comes next, leading up to the Full Moon, where the entire side facing Earth is lit up.

After the Full Moon, the waning gibbous phase begins, gradually decreasing the illuminated portion. The Third Quarter follows, presenting a half-illuminated Moon, and finally, the waning crescent phase. The cycle then starts anew with another New Moon.

Remember, the Moon rises in the east and sets in the west, just like the Sun. However, its orientation and phases will appear different compared to the northern hemisphere.