Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on November 16
As the moon waxes and wanes through its lunar cycle, many of us find ourselves wondering where it goes during its various phases. Currently, on November 16, the moon is in its Waning Crescent phase, with only 12% of its surface illuminated. This phase signifies that the moon is transitioning towards the New Moon, when it will be completely dark and invisible from Earth. This cyclical journey of the moon is not just a fascinating celestial event; it also provides an excellent opportunity for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to observe unique lunar features. For instance, even during this dim phase, the Aristarchus Plateau—a prominent 25-mile diameter crater—can be spotted with the naked eye, while binoculars reveal the expansive Grimaldi Basin, and telescopes unveil the intricate details of Reiner Gamma.
Understanding the moon phases is essential for appreciating this natural phenomenon. The lunar cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days, during which the moon transitions through eight distinct phases. Starting from the New Moon, when the moon is positioned between Earth and the sun and is thus invisible, it progresses through the Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and finally back to the Waning Crescent. Each phase offers a different view, with the Full Moon being particularly striking as the entire face of the moon is illuminated. This consistent pattern of illumination and shadow is a result of the moon’s orbit around Earth, which dictates how much sunlight reflects off its surface toward our planet.
Looking ahead, the next Full Moon is anticipated to occur on December 4, providing another chance for sky watchers to enjoy the moon in all its glory. The lunar phases not only serve as a captivating spectacle but also play a significant role in various cultural and scientific contexts, influencing tides, agricultural practices, and even folklore. So, whether you’re an avid astronomer or a casual observer, take a moment to appreciate the moon’s journey through the night sky and the wonders it presents during each phase.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USpa7mU5–Y
Wondering where the moon is disappearing to? This is due to the lunar cycle, meaning each night a bit less of it is lit up until it disappears completely at the New Moon.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Sunday, Nov. 16, the
moon
phase is Waning Crescent. This means 12% of the moon is lit up tonight, according to
NASA’s Daily Moon Observation
.
There’s not as much to see tonight, but if you look hard enough, you might spot a few features. If you don’t have any visual aids, you’ll be able to spot the
Aristarchus Plateau.
This is a 25-mile diameter crater. With binoculars you’ll also be able to see the Grimaldi Basin, and with a telescope you’ll see the Reiner Gamma.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon will be on Dec. 4.
What are moon phases?
Moon phases, like the Waning Crescent, are all part of a 29.5-day lunar cycle, according to
NASA
. These phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. So, sometimes it looks full, sometimes half, and sometimes not there at all (aka, the New Moon). There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:
The eight main moon phases are:
New Moon – The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it’s invisible to the eye).
Waxing Crescent – A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.
Full Moon – The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.
Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.
