Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on December 5
As we move past the dazzling Full Moon of December 5, the lunar cycle transitions into the Waning Gibbous phase, where approximately 99% of the moon remains illuminated. This phase signifies a gradual decrease in visibility until we reach the New Moon, a time when the moon becomes entirely dark and invisible from our perspective. For stargazers and lunar enthusiasts, the Waning Gibbous phase offers an excellent opportunity to explore the moon’s surface features, which can be observed with the naked eye, binoculars, or even a telescope. Notable sights include the expansive Humorum Mare, the prominent Endymion Crater, and the striking Alphonsus Crater, which are all visible without any equipment. For those equipped with binoculars, the Alps Mountains and Clavius Crater come into view, while telescope users can even catch a glimpse of the historic Apollo 11 and 12 landing sites, making this phase an exciting time for amateur astronomers.
Understanding the moon’s phases is essential for appreciating its beauty and significance in our night sky. NASA describes the lunar cycle as a journey lasting about 29.5 days, during which the moon’s appearance changes as it orbits Earth. This cycle consists of eight distinct phases: from the New Moon, where the moon is hidden from view, to the Full Moon, when it shines brightly in its entirety. The Waning Gibbous phase, which we are currently experiencing, marks the transition from full illumination to the gradual return to darkness. Following the Waning Gibbous, the moon will progress through the Third Quarter and finally into the Waning Crescent before becoming invisible again. The next Full Moon is anticipated on January 3, providing another opportunity for celestial observation. As we continue to enjoy the moon’s splendor in its various forms, each phase reminds us of the dynamic nature of our universe and the beauty that lies beyond our planet.
The moon still looks pretty big and bright in the sky after last night’s Full Moon. But now that it’s passed, the moon will actually be getting less visible each night as we work through the lunar cycle and approach the New Moon phase. Until then, however, there’s plenty to see on the surface, so keep reading to find out what you can spot.
What is today’s moon phase?
As of Friday, Dec. 5, the
moon
phase is Waning Gibbous. This means 99% 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 Humorum Mare, Endymion Crater, and Alphonsus Crater. With binoculars you’ll also be able to spy the Alps Mountains, Clavius Crater and the Mare Humorum. And with a telescope, you can catch a glimpse of the Apollo 11 and 12 landing spots.
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.
