The moon is presently in a different phase of the lunar cycle, and we have all the necessary information regarding tonight’s visibility and what to look for.

The lunar cycle comprises eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility. This complete cycle spans approximately 29.5 days, as per NASA, and these phases take place as the Sun illuminates varying portions of the moon during its orbit around Earth.

Discover what’s taking place with the moon tonight, July 2.

What is the moon phase today?

As of Wednesday, July 2, the moon phase is First Quarter. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, 48% of the moon will be illuminated and visible from Earth.

First Quarter represents the stage of the lunar cycle where the moon looks like a half moon. This marks day seven of the lunar cycle, and with more of the moon on display, there’s a lot to see when you gaze upward.

With the naked eye, you can view the Mare Serenitatis, Mare Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Fecunditatis on the moon’s surface. If you are in the Northern Hemisphere, these will be situated in the upper right of the moon. For those in the Southern Hemisphere, check the lower left.

If you have binoculars, you’ll also observe the Endymion Crater and the Posidonius Crater, along with Mare Nectaris. Using a telescope, similar to last night, you’ll be able to catch sight of the Apollo 11 and Apollo 17 landing sites and the Rupes Altai. You’ll also see the Descartes Highlands, a crater located just south of the Apollo 16 landing area.

When is the upcoming full moon?

This month’s full moon will take place on July 10. The previous full moon occurred on June 11.

What are moon phases?

Moon phases arise from the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which alters the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases illustrate how the moon looks from Earth while it orbits our planet. We consistently view the same side of the moon, but the illuminated portion by the Sun varies depending on its orbital position. This creates full moons, half moons, and moons that appear to be unseen. There are eight primary moon phases that follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon – The moon sits between Earth and the Sun, making the visible side dark (invisible to the eye).

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

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

Waxing Gibbous – More than half is illuminated, but it is not yet full.

Full Moon – The entire face of the moon is aglow and completely visible.

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

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

Waning Crescent – A narrow sliver of light lingers on the left side before it becomes dark once more.