Unlocking the Mysteries of Today's NYT Strands Puzzle for December 15th, #287

Are you on the hunt for today's Strands puzzle answers? Look no further! This edition is packed with clever themes and satisfying challenges.

As we delve into December 2024, it’s marked a pivotal year for stargazers. I had an unforgettable experience watching the total solar eclipse from the iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. The breathtaking event was accompanied by a musical backdrop featuring classics like "Black Hole Sun" and "Here Comes the Sun." And if that wasn’t enough, the mesmerizing Northern Lights painted the sky here in Seattle, making it a year of stellar sights. If you share a passion for the cosmos, you’re in for a treat with today’s Strands puzzle!

Today’s Strands theme is intriguingly titled: “Moonlighting.” If you’re scratching your head, here’s an extra hint—think of something "made of green cheese."

To tackle today’s puzzle, look out for clue words to unlock in-game hints. The objective is to discover hidden words related to the theme. Each time you find three words of four letters or more, Strands will unveil one of the theme words. Here are some words that can get you started: GLUE, GLUER, BEST, BETS, WANE, PULL, and more.

Now onto the answers! The goal is to identify all the words that resonate with today’s theme. You might find widespread terms that tie back to the moon as you solve the puzzle. The answers that align with our lunar theme include FULL, WANING, WAXING, GIBBOUS, QUARTER, and CRESCENT. Keep in mind, the spangram—a single word that stretches across the board—adds an extra layer of complexity to the challenge.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Strands puzzle and beyond, as stargazing and puzzle-solving continue to inspire and engage enthusiasts everywhere! Keep those minds sharp and enjoy the cosmic wonders while you puzzle away!