As we near this month’s full moon, let’s take a moment to assess our current status in the lunar cycle.

The lunar cycle comprises eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility. According to NASA, this cycle spans approximately 29.5 days, with these phases occurring as the Sun casts light on various sections of the moon while it orbits Earth.

So, what is the moon doing tonight, Aug. 4?

What is the moon phase today?

On Monday, Aug. 4, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, the moon will be 77% illuminated this evening, marking the 11th day of the lunar cycle.

Each night, as we progress through the lunar cycle, the moon becomes increasingly visible from Earth. With the naked eye tonight, you can view the Copernicus Crater, the Mare Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Crisium.

Utilize binoculars to observe the Posidonius Crater, the Mare Nectaris, and the Endymion Crater. Through a telescope, you can also see the Rima Arladaeus, the Descartes Highlands, and Apollo 12.

When will the next full moon be?

The upcoming full moon is set to occur on August 9. The previous full moon was on July 10.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, moon phases arise from the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, changing the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases depict the moon’s appearance from Earth as it revolves around us. We consistently see the same hemisphere of the moon, but the portion lit by the Sun differs according to its orbital location. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear invisible. There are eight main moon phases in a recurring cycle:

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

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

First Quarter – The right segment of the moon is lit, resembling a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but it has yet to become full.

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

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

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

Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before it goes dark once more.