Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on December 6
Have you noticed the moon looking a bit smaller in the night sky recently? This optical illusion is due to our current position in the lunar cycle, which is a fascinating sequence of phases that the moon undergoes as it orbits Earth. As of Saturday, December 6, the moon is in the Waning Gibbous phase, with an impressive 96% of its surface illuminated. This phase occurs after the full moon, when the moon begins to lose light as it transitions towards the New Moon. During this time, stargazers can enjoy a spectacular view of various lunar features, including the Oceanus Procellarum and the Kepler Crater, which are visible to the naked eye. For those equipped with binoculars or a telescope, additional craters such as Posidonius and Alphonsus, as well as the historic Apollo landing sites, become accessible for exploration.
Understanding the lunar phases is crucial for appreciating the moon’s beauty and its impact on Earth. NASA explains that the lunar cycle lasts about 29.5 days and consists of eight distinct phases. These phases are determined by the moon’s position relative to Earth and the sun, affecting how much sunlight reflects off its surface and reaches our eyes. Starting from the New Moon, when the moon is positioned between Earth and the sun and is invisible to us, the cycle progresses through phases such as the Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, and Full Moon, where the moon is fully illuminated. After the Full Moon, it enters the Waning Gibbous phase, gradually transitioning to the Third Quarter and finally to the Waning Crescent before returning to the New Moon. Each phase offers a unique perspective of the moon, making it an exciting subject for amateur astronomers and casual skywatchers alike.
Looking ahead, the next full moon will occur on January 3, presenting another opportunity for enthusiasts to witness the moon at its brightest. As we move through the lunar cycle, it’s a perfect time to step outside, gaze up at the night sky, and appreciate the celestial dance of the moon. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer with a telescope or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the night sky, understanding the moon’s phases can deepen your connection to the universe. So, keep your eyes peeled and your binoculars ready, as the moon continues to captivate us with its ever-changing appearance!
Have you noticed the moon looking a little smaller lately? That’s because of where we are in the lunar cycle, a series of the moon’s different phases. Right now, we’re heading towards the New Moon. Keep reading to find out what this means.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Saturday, Dec. 6, the
moon
phase is Waning Gibbous. This means 96% of the moon is lit up tonight, according to
NASA’s Daily Moon Observation
.
If you’re looking up with just your naked eye, there’s lots to see, in particular the Oceanus Procellarum and the Kepler Crater. With binoculars you’ll also be able to spy the Posidonius and Alphonsus craters, as well at the Grimaldi Basin. And with a telescope, you can catch a glimpse of the Apollo 11 and 12 landing spots and the Linne Crater.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon will be on Jan. 3.
What are moon phases?
NASA
explains that the lunar cycle (which is about 29.5 days long) is made up of the Moon’s phases, which describe how the Moon looks from Earth as it travels around us. We view the same side of the Moon at all times, but the sunlight hitting its surface shifts as it moves through its orbit. That changing illumination is what makes the Moon appear full, half-lit, or not visible at all. The cycle includes eight distinct 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.
