Sun and Moon Visible During the Day

These two photos were taken at the same time, on the same day. They were taken at 3:28 PM. The photographer took a photo of the sun, then turned and took a photo of the moon. You will notice that both are visible in the afternoon sky!

Image

Bondurant

Iowa Core Standard

1-ESS1-1

Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted

Driving Question

What do you see in the sky during the day? What don't you see in the sky during the day? Why?

Probing Questions

Why can you see the moon and the sun in the sky at the same time?
Why don't you see the stars during the day?
Where do you think the sun will set? Where do you think the sun will rise? Repeat with the moon.

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

Draw a diagram showing the sunrise and sunset. Then add the moonrise and moonset.
Write a paragraph or draw a picture describing why you don't see stars during the day but you see the moon.
Use a Venn Diagram to compare and contrast the daytime and nighttime sky.

Resources

PBS LearningMedia | PreK-12 Resources for New School Routines:Observing the Moon: Observe the day Moon in this video and use evidence to describe how it changes position in the day sky.
SciShow Kids | Why Can I See the Moon During the Day? : This video explains why you can see the moon during the day.
Mr. Adam's EDventures | Kids Book Read Aloud: Moon! Earth's Best Friend: Watch this story called Moon! The Earth's Best Friend to learn more about the moon and how it orbits the moon.
Wonderopolis | Can You Only See the Moon at Night?: Read this article to learn more about seeing the moon during the daytime. This website includes vocabulary words, pictures and videos!

Contributors

Phenomena submitted by Lexi Wiltgen.