The moon is gradually becoming less apparent with each passing night, ultimately vanishing altogether.
The moon’s darkness results from our current position within the lunar cycle, which features eight unique phases. This cycle spans approximately 29.5 days, as stated by NASA, and these phases arise as the Sun shines on various parts of the moon during its journey around Earth.
Let’s explore the status of the moon for tonight, Aug. 19.
What is the moon phase for today?
On Tuesday, Aug. 19, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase, being 16% visible from Earth, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.
Today marks day 26 of the lunar cycle, and there’s little to observe tonight. With just your eyes, attempt to locate the Aristarchus Plateau, found in the upper left section of the moon (bottom right in the Southern Hemisphere).
With binoculars, you can observe more features, such as the Grimaldi Basin, and using a telescope, you might catch sight of the Reiner Gamma.
When is the upcoming full moon?
The next full moon occurs on Sept. 7. The previous full moon took place on Aug. 9.
What are the phases of the moon?
According to NASA, the phases of the moon arise from the 29.5-day cycle of its orbit, changing the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. These phases illustrate the appearance of the moon from Earth as it revolves around us. We consistently see the same face of the moon, but the illuminated portion by the Sun varies depending on its orbital position. This results in full moons, half moons, and moons that appear to be non-existent. There are eight primary moon phases, which follow a recurring cycle:
New Moon – The moon sits between Earth and the sun, making it invisible.
Waxing Crescent – A slender sliver of light emerges on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – Half of the moon’s surface is illuminated on the right, resembling a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but not entirely.
Full Moon – The whole face of the moon is bright and visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon begins to lose light on the right side.
Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) – Another half-moon, with the left side illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A slender sliver of light remains on the left before it fades to darkness again.