We are currently on the third day of the lunar cycle, with the moon starting to be more apparent. While there is still some time before the full moon, there is plenty to observe as we progress through the lunar cycle, which consists of eight phases reflecting the moon’s visibility.
Let’s check what’s happening with the moon this evening, Sept. 24.
What is the moon phase today?
As of Wednesday, Sept. 24, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent, and according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, only 7% can be seen tonight.
Sadly, the amount of the moon that is lit by the sun is insufficient, so there is nothing to observe tonight. We will attempt again tomorrow.
When will the next full moon occur?
The upcoming full moon is set to take place on Oct. 6. The previous full moon occurred on Sept. 7.
What are the phases of the moon?
NASA clarifies that the phases of the moon are part of a 29.5-day cycle pertaining to the moon’s orbit, altering the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. The phases of the moon reflect how it appears from Earth during its orbit; at times it looks full, at other times it is not visible, yet we always see the same face of the moon, with the sunlit portion varying due to its orbit.
This results in full moons, half moons, and moons that appear to be absent. There are eight principal moon phases, following a recurring cycle:
New Moon – The moon lies between Earth and the sun, rendering the visible side dark (invisible to sight).
Waxing Crescent – A small sliver of brightness appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – Half of the moon is illuminated on the right side, resembling a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – Over half is lit, but it is not yet full.
Full Moon – The complete face of the moon is lit and entirely visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon begins to lose light on the right side.
Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) – Another half-moon, but this time the left side is illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light lingers on the left side before going dark again.