The moon seems to diminish in size every night, showing the current phase, Waning Crescent. The lunar cycle has eight phases, and we are on day 24 of the 29.5-day period. According to NASA, these phases occur as the Sun lights up different areas of the moon during its journey around Earth. Let’s investigate the moon’s condition tonight, Sept. 16.

What is the phase of the moon today?

On Tuesday, Sept. 16, the moon phase is Waning Crescent, with a visibility of 28% from Earth, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

Currently, visibility is progressively declining each night until the New Moon phase. Nevertheless, numerous moon features are still recognizable, so gaze upward with whatever tools you possess.

For those lacking equipment, the Aristarchus Plateau and Kepler Crater can be seen with the naked eye. Using binoculars, one can observe the Grimaldi Basin, Gassendi Crater, and Mare Humorum. A telescope will disclose the Reiner Gamma, Schiller Crater, and the Apollo 12 landing site.

When will the next full moon occur?

The next full moon will take place on Oct. 6. The previous full moon was on Sept. 7.

What are the phases of the moon?

As stated by NASA, moon phases are the result of the moon’s 29.5-day orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases illustrate how the moon appears from Earth as it orbits around us. We consistently see the same side, but the illuminated section varies according to its orbital position. This cycle leads to full moons, half moons, and invisible moons. The eight primary moon phases follow a recurring cycle:

New Moon – The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, making it invisible.

Waxing Crescent – A small illuminated sliver appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter – Half of the moon is illuminated on the right, resembling a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but not entirely.

Full Moon – The entire face is bright and visible.

Waning Gibbous – The moon gradually loses light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) – Another half-moon, with the left side illuminated.

Waning Crescent – A slender illuminated sliver remains on the left before going dark again.