The Moon · Observing
Syzygy
Say it: SIZ-ih-jee IPA: /ˈsɪzɪdʒi/ noun
Syzygy: An approximately straight-line arrangement of three celestial bodies.
The Sun, Earth, and Moon approach this alignment at new and full Moon. The order differs: the Moon is between Earth and the Sun at new Moon, while Earth is between them at full Moon.
- Example
- The lunar eclipse occurred during syzygy, with Earth between the Sun and Moon.
- Why astronomers use it
- It provides a compact word for the alignment involved in eclipses and lunar phases.
- Tiny cosmic connection
- Syzygy does not guarantee an eclipse; the Moon's tilted orbit often carries it above or below the required shadow alignment.
Observatory The Moon Observing
Where to check it
Written for Cool Moon Facts in its own words; the sources cover the same idea in more depth.