We are gradually approaching the half moon, moving through the various stages of the lunar cycle.
The lunar cycle is made up of eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility. This complete cycle spans roughly 29.5 days, as noted by NASA, with these phases arising as the Sun lights different areas of the moon during its orbit around Earth.
So, what is occurring with the moon tonight, Aug. 14?
What is the moon phase today?
On Thursday, Aug. 14, the moon phase is Waning Gibbous, illuminated at 69% from the perspective of Earth, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.
Moreover, without any visual tools, you can spot the Mare Imbrium, Mare Vaporum, and the Oceanus Procellarum, an “Ocean of Storms” covering more than 10% of the moon’s surface. With binoculars, you can also view the Clavius Crater, Alps Mountains, and the Mare Humorum.
When will the next full moon occur?
The next full moon will take place on Sept. 7. The last full moon happened on Aug. 9.
What are the phases of the moon?
As per NASA, moon phases are the result of the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, changing the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases illustrate how the moon is perceived from Earth as it revolves around us. We always observe the same side of the moon, but the proportion illuminated by the Sun changes based on its position in orbit. This variation leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear entirely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, following a repeating sequence:
New Moon – The moon is located between Earth and the sun, making the side we view dark (invisible to our sight).
Waxing Crescent – A small slice of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – Half of the moon shines on the right side, looking like a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but it is not yet fully illuminated.
Full Moon – The whole surface of the moon is lit and completely visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon starts to lose light on the right side.
Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) – Another half-moon, but now the left side is illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A thin slice of light is left on the left side before it becomes dark again.