Full Moon
The entire visible surface of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun. The Moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise, making it visible all night long. Full moons have been given traditional names throughout history — Wolf Moon in January, Harvest Moon in September, and others based on seasonal activities.
Orbital Geometry
The Moon is opposite the Sun as seen from Earth (opposition). The entire near side is illuminated. When alignment is precise, a lunar eclipse occurs as the Moon passes through Earth's shadow.
Visibility & Observation
Rises at sunset and sets at sunrise, making it visible all night. At full phase, the Moon is at its brightest (apparent magnitude around -12.7). Surface features appear "flat" due to lack of shadows.
Tidal Effects
Full moons produce spring tides, similar to new moons. The Sun and Moon are on opposite sides of Earth, but their gravitational forces still combine to create the largest tidal ranges.