Astronomy/View from the Moon

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Expert: - 4/20/2010


Question
Suppose you live on the Moon, near the center of the face that we see from Earth. During the phase of full moon, what phase would you see for Earth? Thank you.

Answer
Hi Nina,
The Earth would remain stationary, high overhead, and go through phases exactly opposite of
what Earth observers were seeing of the moon. At full moon, lunar observers would be looking
at (but not seeing) a "new Earth" with the sun very close by. If perchance Earth observers were
seeing a total lunar eclipse, then lunar observers would be seeing an eclipse of the sun by the
dark Earth. When earth observers see a last quarter moon, then lunar observers would see a first
quarter earth. When we see (or can't see) a new moon, then lunar observers are seeing a full
Earth, highly illuminating the lunar landscape. And so it goes, exactly opposite phases.
Clear Skies,
Tom Whiting
Erie PA USA  

Astronomy

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Tom Whiting

Expertise

Astronomy has been my hobby/pasttime for over 50 years.  Currently own 3 telescopes, the largest of which is a 30 inch Newtonian truss Dob that is portable.I taught Astronomy/Meteorology at the University Level for 13 years before retiring in 1995. Being retired and home most of the time, I am able to answer all questions relatively quickly, unless it's a new moon weekend with good observing conditions.  No astrology questions please, or questions about alleged UFO picture identifications.

Experience

Experience: Astronomy has been my hobby and study for over 50 years. We currently now own a 30 inch portable telescope (Updated - Pennsylvania`s largest portable telescope). It can be seen on our website at:http://www.velocity.net/~bwhiting and also attend several regional starparties during the year, and have been on 5 total solar eclipse expeditions.

Organizations: President, Erie County Mobile Observers Group for over 15 years.

Publications: Wrote the "Over Erie Skies" newspaper article in our local newspaper for 11 years (1975-86).

Education: Masters Degree- Taught at the University level for 13 years. Retired 20 years -USAF Pilot - KC-135 with 180 combat missions;  Also Eagle Scout, Philmont staff 2 Yrs, Order of Arrow Lodge Chief, Ham Radio (inactive).

Awards: two discoveries: The mini-coathanger asterism in Ursa Minor (the little dipper) And the mini-ladle- another asterism in the bowl of Ursa Minor. Clients: Currently President of the ECMOG as mentioned above.

Education/Credentials
BS  Metallurgical Engineering Grove City College, PAMaster's Degree, Gannon University, Erie, PA Also retired USAF pilot, 20 years.

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