The moon is shining brightly tonight, but it’s not quite full yet. We have a few days until it reaches that phase. The lunar cycle consists of eight distinct phases and takes about 29.5 days to complete, as explained by NASA. These phases occur because the moon orbits Earth and the Sun illuminates different parts of it along the way.
As of tonight, August 5, the moon is in a Waxing Gibbous phase. It’s about 85% illuminated, which means it looks quite bright in the sky. You can catch some interesting features like Mare Vaporum, Mare Tranquillitatis, and the Tycho Crater with just your eyes. If you have binoculars, try spotting Mare Humorum, the Apennine Mountains, and the Archimedes Crater, which is about three-quarters the size of Washington, DC. Using a telescope? Enjoy detailed views of the Schiller Crater and the Gruithuisen Domes. NASA calls the Gruithuisen Domes a “geologic mystery” because these volcanic mountains are steeper than normal lunar volcanoes and form without water or plate tectonics, which are crucial for volcanoes on Earth.
The next full moon is just a few days away on August 9. It’s always fascinating to think about how these phases have been observed for centuries. Long ago, people used the moon’s cycles for planting crops and marking seasons.
So, what exactly are moon phases? They happen due to the moon’s orbit around Earth, which changes how we see its brightness. Despite always facing the same side of the moon, the illuminated part varies. Here’s a quick look at the main phases:
- New Moon: The moon is between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A small light appears on the right side.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is lit and looks like a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit, but it’s not full yet.
- Full Moon: The entire face is illuminated and visible.
- Waning Gibbous: Light starts to decrease from the right side.
- Last Quarter: Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains before going dark again.
Understanding the moon’s phases can deepen our appreciation for the night sky. Recent surveys show that many people find comfort in stargazing, especially during these lunar changes. It’s a simple reminder of the beauty above us, connecting us to ancient traditions and modern curiosity alike.
For more insights on moon phases, check out NASA’s detailed guide.
