The Full Moon has arrived, indicating the first of two occurrences in May, recognized as the Flower Moon.

What is the current Moon phase?

On Friday, May 1, the Moon phase is Full Moon. This evening, 100% of the moon’s surface will be aglow, as per NASA’s Daily Moon Guide.

Without visual aids, you can observe the Mare Serenitatis, Tycho Crater, and the Copernicus Crater. With binoculars, the Posidonus Crater, Archimedes Crater, and the Alphonsus Crater can be seen. Utilizing a telescope will also reveal the Apollo 16 landing area, Rima Hyginus, and the Fra Mauro Highlands.

When will the next Full Moon occur?

May features two Full Moons, with the subsequent one taking place on May 30 in North America. Depending on where you are, it might peak on May 31.

What are the phases of the Moon?

As stated by NASA, the Moon requires approximately 29.5 days to orbit Earth, going through eight distinct phases. Although we always observe the same hemisphere, the sunlight alters as it travels, resulting in the phases we recognize as full, half, and crescent Moons. There are eight primary lunar phases.

New Moon – The Moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering it invisible.

Waxing Crescent – A small illuminated sliver appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter – The Moon’s right side is half-lit, resembling a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is illuminated but not yet completely full.

Full Moon – The entire surface is lit and fully observable.

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

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

Waning Crescent – A slim illuminated sliver remains on the left side before it darkens again.