We are now on the third day of the lunar cycle, which includes eight specific phases of the moon’s visibility. This cycle spans about 29.5 days, according to NASA, with these phases occurring as the Sun lights up various parts of the moon while it revolves around Earth.

Let’s check out what the moon is up to tonight, Aug. 26.

What is the moon phase today?

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, the moon is in the Waxing Crescent phase, with merely 11% of it visible from Earth, based on NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

At present, there isn’t sufficient illumination on the moon to observe its surface, so lunar enthusiasts will have to wait a few more days for improved visibility.

When is the upcoming full moon?

The next full moon is set for Sept. 7. The last full moon took place on Aug. 9.

What do we mean by moon phases?

NASA describes moon phases as a result of the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases define how the moon appears from Earth as it travels around us. We constantly see the same side of the moon, but the segment lit by the Sun shifts depending on its position in orbit. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear entirely dark. There are eight main moon phases, creating a cyclical pattern:

New Moon – The moon is situated between Earth and the sun, making the side we view dark (essentially unseen).

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

First Quarter – The right half of the moon shines, resembling a half-moon.

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

Full Moon – The entire surface of the moon is completely lit and observable.

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

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

Waning Crescent – A slender crescent of light remains on the left side before it turns dark again.