As this lunar cycle approaches its conclusion, the moon is nearly completely obscured.
We are currently on day 27 of the lunar cycle, according to NASA, which spans a total of 29.5 days. There are eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility, arising as the Sun lights up various sections of the moon during its orbit around Earth. Let’s delve into what’s occurring with the moon this evening, Sept. 19.
What is the moon phase today?
On Friday, Sept. 19, the moon phase is Waning Crescent, exhibiting 5% visibility from Earth, as reported by NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.
Visibility is presently limited, and nothing can be discerned without optical devices. Nevertheless, using binoculars or a telescope, you can observe the Grimaldi Basin.
When will the next full moon occur?
The forthcoming full moon is set for Oct. 6. The previous full moon took place on Sept. 7.
What constitutes moon phases?
As stated by NASA, moon phases arise from the 29.5-day orbit cycle of the moon, modifying the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases depict how the moon is seen from Earth as it orbits around us. We always witness the same hemisphere of the moon, yet the illuminated section from the Sun alters according to its position in orbit. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear absent. There are eight main moon phases, following a cyclical pattern:
New Moon – The moon is situated between Earth and the sun, making the visible side dark (invisible to the observer).
Waxing Crescent – A small portion of light is visible on the right side (for the Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – The right side of the moon is illuminated halfway, taking on the appearance of a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but it is not completely full.
Full Moon – The entire surface of the moon is lit up and completely visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon starts to decrease in illumination on the right side.
Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) – Another half-moon, this time with the left side illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A slender sliver of light remains on the left side before it fades to darkness once more.