Moon Phase Visualizer

Moon Phase Visualizer – Chrome Extension Description

Overview
Moon Phase Visualizer is an elegant Chrome extension that renders realistic moon phases using astronomical algorithms and NASA lunar textures. It allows users to view the Moon’s exact phase for any chosen date and location, reflecting correct illumination and hemisphere orientation.

Core Features
• Realistic Rendering: The extension employs NASA’s moon texture and precise shading to recreate the lunar surface with a natural gradient shadow transition.
• Date and Location Control: Users select a specific date and enter latitude and longitude to see how the Moon appears from their position
• Accurate Astronomy: It uses Julian date calculations to determine the lunar age, phase angle, and illumination percentage, ensuring scientific accuracy
• Automatic Orientation: The display flips vertically in the Southern Hemisphere to reflect the correct visual perspective
• Detailed Data Panel: The popup shows phase name, illumination, moon age, hemisphere, and waxing/waning status in a compact, easy-to-read layout
• Polished Design: A dark, space-themed interface with subtle animations and responsive controls makes the experience smooth and visually appealing

How It Works
The user opens the popup from the browser toolbar.
The extension automatically loads the current date and location (or saved values).
The MoonCalculator module computes the lunar data, including illumination and phase name
The MoonRenderer module draws the moon phase on an HTML5 canvas using gradient shadowing and realistic lighting
The data panel updates with accurate lunar information

Technical Details
Algorithm: Julian date and synodic month method (29.530588853 days)
Rendering: Canvas 2D context with terminator-based gradient shading
Orientation: Automatic vertical flip for southern latitudes
Manifest Version: 3
Permissions: Local storage only

Privacy
The extension runs entirely offline and does not track or share any personal data. It stores only user-selected coordinates in Chrome’s local storage

Moon Phase Visualizer brings astronomy to your browser. View the Moon’s phase in real time or explore any date in history. Adjust location, observe hemisphere differences, and enjoy a scientifically accurate, beautifully rendered lunar display—all directly in your Chrome toolbar.