As we near the conclusion of the present lunar cycle, the New Moon is merely a few days away. This cycle lasts 29.5 days and encompasses eight unique phases of the moon’s visibility. We are now on day 25. NASA indicates that these phases take place as the Sun lights different sections of the moon during its orbit around Earth. Let’s examine the moon’s condition tonight, Sept. 17.

What is the moon phase today?

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase, with 18% visibility from Earth, as per NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

Currently, visibility is minimal due to the small segment of the moon that is lit, but you can still observe a few features on its surface. Without any visual aids, you might catch sight of the Aristarchus Plateau and Kepler Crater. By using binoculars, you can also observe the Grimaldi Basin and the Gassendi Crater. A telescope will enable you to view the Reiner Gamma.

When will the next full moon occur?

The upcoming full moon is set for Oct. 6. The last full moon took place on Sept. 7.

What are the phases of the moon?

According to NASA, moon phases arise from the moon’s 29.5-day orbit, changing the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. These phases depict how the moon looks from Earth during its orbit. We consistently observe the same side of the moon, but the section lit by the Sun shifts based on its orbital position. This leads to full moons, half moons, and moons that appear invisible. There are eight main moon phases in a repeating cycle:

New Moon – The moon is situated between Earth and the sun, causing the side visible to us to be dark (invisible to the eye).

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

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

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

Full Moon – The entire face of the moon is lit and fully perceivable.

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

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

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