Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on November 25
As we enter the fifth day of the lunar cycle, the moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase, with 24% of its surface illuminated. This phase marks a time of increasing visibility, as the moon grows larger each night. Tonight, stargazers can enjoy a view of the Fecunditatis and Crisium Mares, two vast lunar plains that are easily discernible with the naked eye. For those equipped with binoculars or telescopes, the Endymion Crater and the Posidonius Crater also come into view, offering a glimpse into the moon’s fascinating geological features. This celestial show is a reminder of the beauty and complexity of our nearest neighbor in space.
The lunar cycle, which lasts approximately 29.5 days, consists of eight distinct phases that describe how the moon appears from Earth as it orbits our planet. Starting from the New Moon, when the moon is invisible, the cycle progresses through phases such as the Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, and then back through the Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Each phase brings its own unique appearance and charm, captivating astronomers and casual observers alike. As we look forward to the next full moon on December 4, which will be the final supermoon of the year, enthusiasts are encouraged to take advantage of the clear skies and observe the moon’s transformation. With the right tools and a bit of patience, the wonders of the lunar landscape await, making tonight an excellent opportunity for moon gazing.
We’re on day five of the lunar cycle, which means the moon is working on getting bigger every night. There will be more coming into view tonight than last, so keep reading to find out what you can see.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Tuesday, Nov. 25, the
moon
phase is Waxing Crescent. This means 24% of the moon is lit up tonight, according to
NASA’s Daily Moon Observation
.
With just the naked eye, tonight you’ll be able to see the Fecunditatis and Crisium Mares. With binoculars or a telescope, you’ll also be able to spot the Endymion Crater and the Posidonius Crater.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon will be on Dec. 4, which will be the last of three consecutive supermoons. The
last full moon was on Nov. 5
.
What are moon phases?
According to
NASA
, moon phases are what make up the lunar cycle, a repeating cycle that lasts around 29.5 days. These phases describe how the moon appears from Earth as it orbits our planet. We always see the same side of the moon, but the amount of sunlight illuminating it changes throughout its orbit. That’s why sometimes it looks full, sometimes half, and sometimes disappears entirely. There are eight moon phases:
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.
