The two phases are called "Waxing crescent moon" and "Waning gibbous moon". During these two phases one can barely see the moon.
Explanation:
Astronomers have identified more spiral galaxies than ellipticals, but that's simply because the spirals are easier to spot. While spiral galaxies are bright, elliptical galaxies are dim. The existing stars inside an elliptical galaxy tend to be older, giving off more red light than younger stars.