According to NASA, the lunar cycle spans a total of 29.5 days. Last weekend, a new cycle commenced with the New Moon accompanied by a partial lunar eclipse. This lunar cycle includes the moon’s passage through its eight unique phases of visibility. These phases manifest as the Sun shines on varying regions of the moon while it revolves around Earth.

After several nights without visibility, there’s finally sufficient moonlight for binocular use. Let’s see what’s occurring tonight, Sept. 25.

What is the moon phase today?

As of Thursday, Sept. 25, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent, exhibiting 13% visibility according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.

After nights with no visibility, there’s finally something to witness tonight. With the unaided eye, direct your gaze to the upper right of the moon to spot the Mare Crisium. Centrally located, you’ll discover the Mare Fecunditatis. In the Southern Hemisphere, these will be positioned towards the lower left.

With binoculars, you may catch a glimpse of the Endymion Crater. NASA recommends that with a telescope, you could identify three smaller craters within its perimeter.

When is the next full moon?

The upcoming full moon is scheduled for Oct. 6. The previous full moon occurred on Sept. 7.

What are moon phases?

NASA clarifies that moon phases are components of a 29.5-day cycle tied to the moon’s orbit, modifying the angles among the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases depict how the moon appears from Earth during its orbit; at times it appears full, other times not visible, yet we always see the same face. The illuminated portion changes according to its orbital position.

This leads to full moons, half moons, and non-visible moons. There are eight primary moon phases in a continuous cycle:

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

Waxing Crescent – A small sliver of illumination is visible 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, although not yet full.

Full Moon – The whole face of the moon is aglow.

Waning Gibbous – The moon diminishes light on the right side.

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

Waning Crescent – A narrow sliver of light lingers on the left side before fading to darkness again.