The Phases of the Moon:

Jack and Jill the Untold Story

In this assignment you will watch the changing phases of the moon each night for several weeks and draw a diagram of the moon in your lab notebook. The drawing should be approximately 6 cm in diameter. Every day look at the moon and draw the outline of its shape, then try to draw the grayish areas on the moon’s surface as best as you can. You should also indicate the time at which you saw the moon. A pair of binoculars will be helpful for this part, but if you do not have any available, do the best you can without them. The grayish areas on the surface of the moon area called maria or seas and have a story to tell. Remember the following nursery thyme?

Jack and Jill went up the hill

To fetch a pail of water

Jack fell down and broke his crown

Jill came tumbling after.

This rhyme is reported come from ancient Scandinavia. Jakka , which in Scandinavian means “increase”, represents the waxing phases of the moon between new moon(totally dark)full moon(totally light). Bila, which means “dissolve of decrease” represents Jill and the waning phases of the moon after full moon and before now moon.

As you watch the phases of the moon change each night, try to see Jack and Jill’s story unfold in the grayish areas of the moon. At first quarter, an outline of Jack’s head, arms, body, and legs may be perceived. At full moon phase, you may envision Jill to the left of Jack. Jack and Jill are holding a bucket between them. At one quarter phase, Jack falls down (can no longer be seen), and Jill comes tumbling after (fades from view) just before new moon.

Your observation may begin in the middle of the story. That is why it is important for you to keep careful records of your observations. Below is a list of the phases of the moon for the next few weeks.

November 4, 2002 New Moon

November 11, 2002 First Quarter

November 20, 2002 Full Moon

November 27, 2002 Last Quarter

December 4, 2002 New Moon

Times for moonrise and moonset can be found in your local paper. Knowing these times will facilitate you observations. Please bring your lab notebook to each class meeting so we can follow the progress of the story over the next several weeks.

Safety: Under no circumstances should you look at the sun through binoculars or a telescope. This can result in permanent eyesight damage or loss. In addition, staring directly at the sun with the naked eye can also cause permanent vision damage.