We are currently in the last lunar phase preceding the New Moon, signifying that we are approaching the conclusion of this lunar cycle. The lunar cycle lasts around 29.5 days, during which the Moon completes a complete orbit around Earth and moves through all eight of its phases.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Sunday, Jan. 11, the Moon is in its Waning Crescent phase. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, 42% of the Moon will be illuminated this evening.

When you look up tonight, you won’t require any optical devices to view details on the Moon’s surface; with just your unaided eye, you should be able to spot the Aristarchus Plateau, Kepler Crater, and Tycho Crater. If you have binoculars, you will also be capable of seeing the Grimaldi Basin, Clavius Crater, and the Mare Humorum. A telescope will enable you to observe even more, including the Apollo 12 landing site and the Schiller Crater.

When is the following Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on Feb. 1. The previous full moon occurred on Jan. 3.

What are the phases of the Moon?

NASA clarifies that the Moon requires approximately 29.5 days to finish a complete orbit, known as the lunar cycle. As it orbits Earth, the Moon undergoes a series of unique phases. While the same side of the Moon consistently faces our planet, the sunlight that strikes it alters according to its orbital position. This is the reason the Moon can seem fully illuminated, partially illuminated, or entirely dark at different times. The lunar cycle consists of eight primary phases:

New Moon – The Moon is situated between Earth and the sun, making the side we see dark (essentially invisible to the observer).

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

First Quarter – Half of the Moon is lit 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 lit and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous – The Moon begins to lose light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

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

Waning Crescent – A narrow sliver of light lingers on the left side before it goes dark again.