Moon Takes 27.3 Days to Orbit Earth, New Study Confirms

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Moon takes approximately 27.3 days to complete its orbit around the Earth, a period known as a sidereal month, according to recent astronomical data. This motion is slightly different from the Moon's cycle of phases, which lasts 29.5 days — the synodic month

The sidereal month measures the time it takes the Moon to return to the same position relative to the stars, while the synodic month reflects the time between similar lunar phases, such as from one new moon to the next. The discrepancy is due to Earth's own movement around the Sun, which slightly shifts the position of the Moon in relation to the Earth and Sun.

Experts emphasize that these cycles are crucial for understanding lunar dynamics and the broader mechanics of our solar system.