The moon is currently showing a greater size and brightness with each passing night. This phenomenon is attributed to our location within the lunar cycle.

The lunar cycle is made up of eight unique phases regarding the moon’s visibility. The complete cycle spans approximately 29.5 days, as stated by NASA, and these phases manifest as the Sun lights up various portions of the moon while it revolves around Earth.

Let’s uncover what is occurring with the moon tonight, Sept. 2.

What is today’s moon phase?

On Tuesday, Sept. 2, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase, with 72% visibility from Earth, as per NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

We are nearing the Full Moon, and with each night, more of the moon’s surface becomes visible. This evening, with no optical equipment, you can view the Mare Imbrium, Mare Serenitatis, and Mare Vaporum. Using binoculars, you can also identify the Clavius Crater, the Alphonsus Crater, and the Apennine Mountains. If you have a telescope, enjoy the sights of Apollo 12, Apollo 17, and the Rima Ariadaeus.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon is set to take place on Sept. 7. The prior full moon occurred on Aug. 9.

What are moon phases?

As per NASA, moon phases arise from the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, changing the angles among the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases illustrate how the moon is perceived from Earth as it orbits around us. We consistently observe the same face of the moon, but the illuminated section provided by the Sun shifts depending on its orbital position. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear absent. There are eight main moon phases, following a continuous cycle:

New Moon – The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering the visible side dark (invisible to sight).

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

First Quarter – The right side of the moon is lit, creating a half-moon appearance.

Waxing Gibbous – Over half is illuminated, but it has not yet reached full.

Full Moon – The whole surface of the moon is bright and entirely visible.

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

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

Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before becoming dark again.