Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on November 23
Tonight, November 23, offers a splendid opportunity for moon-gazing enthusiasts, as the Waxing Crescent moon shines brightly in the night sky. After several days shrouded in near darkness, the moon is now approximately 10% illuminated, providing a captivating view for stargazers. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, even without any visual aids, observers can spot the Fecunditatis and Crisium Mares—two of the moon’s vast, dark plains. For those equipped with binoculars or telescopes, the Endymion Crater is a notable feature to look for, positioned in the top right corner of the moon’s surface for viewers in the Northern Hemisphere.
As we anticipate the next full moon on December 4, which marks the final occurrence of three consecutive supermoons, the excitement in the astronomical community builds. The previous full moon occurred on November 5, and with each lunar phase offering a unique spectacle, tonight’s Waxing Crescent serves as a reminder of the moon’s beauty and complexity. Understanding moon phases is essential for appreciating these celestial events; they are part of a continuous lunar cycle lasting approximately 29.5 days. This cycle includes eight distinct phases, ranging from the New Moon—when the moon is completely dark—to the Full Moon, when it is fully illuminated. Each phase presents a different aspect of the moon’s appearance, influenced by its position relative to Earth and the sun.
The Waxing Crescent phase not only heralds the approach of the Full Moon but also invites both amateur and seasoned astronomers to engage with the night sky. Whether you’re simply stepping outside to appreciate the moon’s glow or setting up a telescope to explore its surface in detail, tonight is a perfect occasion to connect with the wonders of our celestial neighbor. So grab your binoculars or simply find a cozy spot to gaze up; the moon is ready to shine bright and share its secrets with those willing to look.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxSIpFBLD4s
After days of almost complete darkness, the moon is big and bright enough tonight to do some moon-gazing. There’s plenty to see, so keep reading to find out what’s on show.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Sunday, Nov. 23, the
moon
phase is Waxing Crescent. This means 10% of the moon is lit up tonight, according to
NASA’s Daily Moon Observation
.
If you don’t have any visual aids, you’ll be able to see the Fecunditatis and Crisium Mares. If you have binoculars or a telescope, you’ll also be able to spot the Endymion Crater in the top right corner (bottom left, if you’re in the Southern Hemisphere).
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?
NASA
tells us that moon phases are all a part of a repeating lunar cycle of 29.5 days. These phases describe how the moon appears from Earth as it orbits our planet. While we always see the same side of the moon, the amount of sunlight illuminating it changes throughout its orbit. That’s why sometimes it looks full, sometimes half, and sometimes disappears entirely (the New Moon). There are eight main 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.
