Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on November 24
As the moon approaches its full phase, stargazers are in for a treat tonight. On November 24, the moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase, with 16% of its surface illuminated. This phase marks the beginning of the lunar cycle, where the moon gradually increases in visibility as it moves towards fullness. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, this is an excellent opportunity for both amateur and seasoned astronomers to observe some fascinating features on the moon’s surface. With the naked eye, viewers can spot the Fecunditatis and Crisium Mares, which are large, dark basaltic plains formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. For those equipped with binoculars or a telescope, the Endymion Crater can be seen prominently in the top right corner of the moon, or in the bottom left if you are observing from the Southern Hemisphere.
Looking ahead, the next full moon is set for December 4, marking the last of three consecutive supermoons this year. The previous full moon occurred on November 5, and each full moon offers a unique opportunity for moon gazing and photography due to its increased size and brightness. Understanding moon phases is key to appreciating these celestial events. The lunar cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days and consists of eight distinct phases, ranging from the New Moon, when the moon is invisible, to the Full Moon, when it is fully illuminated. Each phase presents a different view of the moon as it orbits Earth, creating a dynamic display in our night sky.
For those interested in astronomy or simply enjoying the beauty of the night sky, tonight’s Waxing Crescent moon is a perfect occasion to step outside and take a look. As the moon continues to grow brighter in the coming days, it serves as a reminder of the natural wonders that can be observed from our own backyards. Whether you are using a telescope or just your eyes, the moon offers a captivating spectacle worth witnessing. So grab your binoculars, find a dark spot away from city lights, and enjoy the celestial show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byucPcAGkVg
The moon is working towards being full again, and on day four of the lunar cycle it’s already looking bigger in the sky. Keep reading to see what you can spot on its surface tonight.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Monday, Nov. 24, the
moon
phase is Waxing Crescent. This means 16% 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 in the top right corner. If you’re in the Southern Hemisphere, this will be positioned in the bottom left.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon will be on Dec. 4, this 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.
