The moon becomes progressively brighter each night as we transition through the lunar cycle.
This lunar cycle includes eight unique phases regarding the moon’s visibility. The complete cycle spans approximately 29.5 days, as reported by NASA, and these phases arise as the Sun lights up various portions of the moon during its orbit around Earth.
So, what’s taking place tonight, July 30?
What is the moon phase today?
As of Wednesday, July 30, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent. There is 32% of the moon’s surface visible to observers on Earth (per NASA’s Daily Moon Observation).
It’s day six of the new lunar cycle, and there’s plenty to see on the moon’s surface.
With bare eyesight, appreciate the sight of the Mare Crisium and the Mare Fecunditatis, an impact basin also referred to as the “Sea of Fertility.” Bring binoculars into play, and you’ll notice the Endymion Crater and the Posidonius Crater, a lava-filled impact crater observable from the fifth to the 19th day of the lunar cycle.
If you possess a telescope, you will also catch a glimpse of Apollo 17, the final moon landing of the Apollo program. Utilize NASA’s interactive moon guide tool to pinpoint the precise location.
When will the next full moon occur?
The upcoming full moon is set for August 9. The previous full moon occurred on July 10.
What are the phases of the moon?
As per NASA, the phases of the moon result from the 29.5-day cycle of its orbit, which changes the angles among the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases depict how the moon is seen from Earth as it revolves around us. We consistently view the same side of the moon, but the portion lit by the Sun varies according to its orbital position. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear entirely invisible. There are eight primary moon phases, following a recurring cycle:
New Moon – The moon lies between Earth and the sun, rendering the side we see dark (invisible to the observer).
Waxing Crescent – A slender sliver of light becomes visible on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter –