The moon is sometimes visible during the day because it reflects sunlight. The moon is much closer to Earth than the stars, so its surface brightness is greater than the surface brightness of the sky, meaning we can easily see it shining during daylight. However, the moon’s visibility during daylight is also influenced by other factors, including:
- The phase of the moon: The moon’s phase refers to how much of its surface is illuminated by the sun. The full moon is the easiest to see during the day, as the entire surface is illuminated. The new moon is the hardest to see during the day, as the entire surface is dark.
- The time of day: The moon is usually easier to see during the day when the sun is low in the sky, such as early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This is because the sun’s light is not as bright when it is low in the sky, so the moon’s light is more noticeable.
- The weather: The moon is easier to see during the day when the weather is clear. This is because clouds can block out the sun’s light, making it harder to see the moon.
- The location: The moon is easier to see during the day when you are located in a rural area. This is because there is less light pollution in rural areas, so the moon’s light is not as obscured.
The moon is visible during daylight for an average of 25 days out of the month throughout the year. However, the moon can be visible during daylight for more or less than 25 days, depending on the time of year and the phase of the moon.