The Full Moon is nearing, presenting numerous features to observe on its surface, whether or not you have visual aids.

What is the moon phase today?

As of Sunday, Nov. 2, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous. Tonight, 87% of the moon will be lit, based on NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

Even without visual aids, you can observe features such as the Mare Tranquillitatis, Mare Imbrium, and Kepler Crater. With binoculars, you can see the Gassendi Crater, Apennine Mountains, and Mare Nectaris. A telescope will allow you to view the Rima Ariadaeus, Apollo 15, and Gruithuisen Domes.

When will the next full moon occur?

The upcoming full moon will be on Nov. 5.

What are the phases of the moon?

As stated by NASA, the moon transitions through its phases while it travels through a 29.5-day orbit around Earth. These phases emerge from varying angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. From our perspective on Earth, the moon may look full, partially illuminated, or seem to vanish altogether, but it is always the same hemisphere facing us. The quantity of sunlight reflecting off its face alters according to its orbital position, which is termed the lunar cycle.

The eight primary phases of the moon are:

New Moon – The moon lies between Earth and the sun, causing the visible side to be dark.

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

First Quarter – The right side of the moon is illuminated halfway, resembling a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous – Over half is lit, yet it is not completely full.

Full Moon – The whole surface of the moon is illuminated.

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

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

Waning Crescent – A thin slice of light remains on the left side before darkening once more.