The Complete Lunar Cycle Illuminated Moon

This is the wall-mounted illuminated convex replica of the near side of the Moon that cycles through all eight lunar phases, yet accomplishes the transition between each phase smoothly by depicting consecutive nights of the same phase, resulting in a total of 12 different views separated by five-second intervals. In automatic mode, it progresses through the waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent phases before beginning again with the new moon. The raised textured surface faithfully depicts recognizable details such as the Mare Tranquillitatis, site of the Apollo 11 moon landing, and Tycho crater. It only function s in a darkened room and shuts off in 15 minutes if left unattended; phases can be manually advanced with included remote. Moon requires four AA batteries and remote requires two AAA batteries. Ages 6 and up. The manufacturer has confirmed that this item meets U.S. Federal toy safety standards for lead. 10" Diam. x 21/2" D. (11/2 lbs.)