The Moon is almost out of view, and if you intended to gaze at it this evening, disappointment awaits. With the New Moon nearing, only a tiny segment is brightened by the Sun, making it hard to discern much of its surface.

What is the Moon phase today?

On Sunday, March 15, the Moon phase is Waning Crescent. As per NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, 16% of the Moon will be observable tonight.

This evening, chances to view the Moon’s surface are restricted. Without visual tools, spotting anything is quite difficult. Nonetheless, with binoculars or a telescope, you may be able to see the Grimaldi Basin.

When will the next Full Moon occur?

In North America, the upcoming Full Moon is anticipated on April 1.

What are the phases of the Moon?

NASA clarifies that the Moon takes around 29.5 days to circle Earth, undergoing eight unique phases. Though we consistently see the same face of the Moon, the lit section alters as it moves, causing it to look full, half-lit, or just a slender crescent at various times. These transformations are referred to as lunar phases, and there are a total of eight:

New Moon – The Moon is situated between Earth and the sun, so the visible side is dark (not visible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent – A small slice of light emerges on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

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

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

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

Waning Gibbous – The Moon begins to lose brightness on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half-Moon, but now the left side is illuminated.

Waning Crescent – A slim sliver of light lingers on the left side before it darkens again.