The Moon continues to be prominently visible in the sky, providing plenty of opportunities to view its distinctive surface characteristics.

What is the Moon phase today?

As of Sunday, May 3, the Moon phase is Waning Gibbous. Tonight, 98% of the moon will be illuminated, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide.

Without any visual tools, you should be able to see the Mare Serenitatus and Vaporum, as well as the Oceanus Procellarum. With binoculars, you’ll identify the Posidonus Crater, Endymion Crater, and the Mare Humorum. Utilizing a telescope, you’ll also observe the Apollo 14 and 17 landing sites, in addition to the Descartes Highlands.

When will the next Full Moon occur?

May features two Full Moons, with the next one taking place on May 31.

What are the different Moon phases?

NASA outlines that the Moon takes approximately 29.5 days to complete its orbit around Earth, undergoing eight distinct phases. Though we consistently see the same side, the sunlight illuminating it changes as it rotates. This shifting light gives rise to the phases identified as full, half, and crescent Moons. There are eight primary lunar phases.

New Moon – The Moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering it invisible.

Waxing Crescent – A small illumination 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 lit, but it isn’t completely full.

Full Moon – The entire surface is lit.

Waning Gibbous – The Moon loses its illumination on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

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

Waning Crescent – A slender light persists on the left before fading away.