The visibility of the moon is diminishing each night, and this evening, under 20% of it is illuminated. Nonetheless, if you observe carefully, you might still discern some characteristics on its surface.
What is the moon phase today?
As of Saturday, Nov. 15, the current moon phase is Waning Crescent. This indicates that 19% of the moon is illuminated tonight, as per NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.
Although there is slightly less to observe tonight, visibility is not entirely absent. Without the aid of visual instruments, you can spot the Kepler Crater and the Aristarchus Plateau. Using binoculars, you will be able to view the Grimaldi Basin, and with a telescope, you can also see the Reiner Gamma.
When will the next full moon occur?
The subsequent full moon is set for Dec. 4.
What are the phases of the moon?
Moon phases are components of a 29.5-day lunar cycle, according to NASA. These phases depict how the moon appears from Earth as it revolves around us. We consistently observe the same side of the moon; however, the illuminated portion by the Sun varies with its orbital position. Consequently, at times it appears full, occasionally half, and sometimes not visible at all (referred to as the New Moon). There are eight principal moon phases, which recur in a cycle:
The eight primary moon phases are:
New Moon – The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering the side we see dark (invisible to the naked eye).
Waxing Crescent – A small fragment of light emerges on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – The right side of the moon is half-lit, resembling a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – Over half is illuminated, but it is not fully bright yet.
Full Moon – The entire face of the moon is lit and completely visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon begins to lose light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half-moon, but this time the left side is illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A narrow band of light remains on the left side before it goes dark again.