This evening signifies a new lunar phase, showing that the moon is approximately half lit.

The lunar cycle is made up of eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility. This sequence lasts around 29.5 days, as noted by NASA, and these phases arise as the Sun lights up various parts of the moon during its journey around Earth.

Let’s take a look at the moon’s condition tonight, Aug. 31.

What is the current moon phase?

On Sunday, Aug. 31, the moon is at the First Quarter phase, with 53% visible from Earth, as per NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

There’s plenty to observe when you look at the moon tonight. Without visual instruments, you will see the Mare Serenitatis, Mare Fecunditatis, and Mare Tranquillitatis. By using binoculars, you can also catch sight of the Endymion Crater, Archimedes Crater, and the Apennine Mountains. Through a telescope, you’ll notice Apollo 15, Apollo 17, and Rupes Altai.

When is the upcoming full moon?

The following full moon will occur on Sept. 7. The previous full moon took place on Aug. 9.

What are the moon phases?

Nasa states that moon phases are a result of the moon’s 29.5-day orbital cycle, which alters the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases illustrate the moon’s appearance from Earth as it revolves around us. We consistently see the same side of the moon, but the lit portion by the Sun varies according to its orbital position. This change results in full moons, half moons, and moons that appear entirely dark. There are eight primary moon phases, following a repeating cycle:

New Moon – The moon is situated between Earth and the sun, causing the side we observe to be dark (invisible).

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

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

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is illuminated, but it isn’t full yet.

Full Moon – The moon’s entire face is fully lit and observable.

Waning Gibbous – The moon starts to lose light on the right side.

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

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