As the Full Moon nears, there’s a lot to witness on the surface of the moon this evening. Keep reading to learn what you can observe.

What is the current moon phase?

On Saturday, Nov. 1, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous. Tonight, 79% of the moon will be lit up, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

Without any tools, you can identify the Mare Crisium, Mare Imbrium, and the Copernicus Crater. With binoculars, you’ll spot the Archimedes Crater, the Alps Mountains, and the Mare Nectaris. For telescope users, the Rima Ariadaeus, the Linne Crater, and the Rupes Altai are visible.

When will the next full moon occur?

The next full moon is set for Nov. 5.

What are the different moon phases?

Nasa explains that the moon transitions through its phases in a 29.5-day orbit around Earth. The phases are a result of the shifting angles among the Sun, Moon, and Earth. From our perspective on Earth, the moon may look full, partially lit, or appear to fade, yet the same side is always directed toward us. The level of sunlight bouncing off its surface varies depending on its position in orbit, creating the lunar cycle.

The eight primary moon phases are:

New Moon – The moon lies between Earth and the sun, rendering the side we see dark (invisible).

Waxing Crescent – A small segment of light becomes visible on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).

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

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is bright, but it’s not completely full yet.

Full Moon – The whole face of the moon is lit and entirely observable.

Waning Gibbous – The moon starts to lose light on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another semi-circle, this time with the left side illuminated.

Waning Crescent – A slender segment of light lingers on the left side before disappearing again.