Final answer:
The entire moon phase process lasts approximately 29.5 days. It takes about 14 days for the side of the Moon facing us to go from a full moon to a new moon. The Moon's orbital period, measured by the stars, is 27.3217 days.
Step-by-step explanation:
The entire moon phase process lasts approximately 29.5 days. It takes about 14 days for the side of the Moon facing us to go from a full moon (all lit up) to a new moon (all dark). This cycle is known as the synodic period. The Moon's orbital period, measured by the stars, is 27.3217 days.