Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on November 16
As we gaze up at the night sky, many of us may wonder why the moon seems to vanish from view over a few weeks. This phenomenon is part of the lunar cycle, a continuous rhythm that dictates how we perceive the moon’s illumination from Earth. Currently, on Sunday, November 16, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase, where only 12% of its surface is lit, as reported by NASA’s Daily Moon Observation. This phase occurs just before the New Moon, when the moon becomes nearly invisible in the night sky. The Waning Crescent provides a unique opportunity for stargazers; although the moon appears dim, keen observers may still spot notable lunar features. For instance, the Aristarchus Plateau, a prominent 25-mile diameter crater, can be seen with the naked eye, while binoculars reveal the expansive Grimaldi Basin, and a telescope can uncover the intricate details of Reiner Gamma.
Understanding moon phases is essential for appreciating this celestial dance. The lunar cycle spans approximately 29.5 days and includes eight distinct phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Each phase represents a different portion of the moon illuminated by the sun, depending on its position relative to Earth. For example, during the New Moon, the moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering it invisible to our eyes. As it waxes, we see increasing illumination until it reaches the Full Moon, where the entire face is brilliantly lit. Following this, the moon begins to wane, transitioning back through the phases until it becomes a sliver of light once more before disappearing entirely. The next full moon is anticipated on December 4, offering a chance for moon watchers to witness the moon at its brightest and most beautiful.
The lunar cycle not only captivates our imagination but also serves as a reminder of the cosmos’ intricate workings. Each phase invites us to engage with the night sky, encouraging exploration and observation. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply a curious observer, the moon’s phases provide a fascinating glimpse into the celestial mechanics at play, transforming our understanding of the universe and our place within it. So, as the moon continues to wane, take a moment to look up and appreciate the subtle beauty of the night sky, knowing that soon it will return to full glory.
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.
