The moon is gradually brightening as it moves through its lunar cycle. This cycle lasts about 29.5 days, during which different parts of the moon light up as the Sun casts its glow from different angles. You can learn more about this on NASA’s website.
Tonight, August 28, we have a Waxing Crescent moon. Approximately 25% of its surface is visible from Earth, as shown in NASA’s Daily Moon Observation.
The moon is bright enough now for us to see some fascinating features on its surface. If you look to the upper right (or lower left in the Southern Hemisphere), you can spot Mare Crisium and Mare Fecunditatis. With binoculars or a telescope, you might also catch a glimpse of Endymion Crater.
Curious about the next full moon? It’s on September 7, following the last one, which occurred on August 9.
But why do we see these different phases of the moon? According to NASA, it all comes down to the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth throughout its orbit. We’re always looking at the same side of the moon; what changes is how much light we see. This leads to full moons, half moons, and even times when the moon seems to disappear. There are eight main phases, going from:
- New Moon: The moon is hidden between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A thin sliver of light appears on the right side.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is visible, resembling a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit up, approaching full appearance.
- Full Moon: The entire face of the moon is bright and visible.
- Waning Gibbous: The moon starts to dim on the right side.
- Last Quarter: Another half-moon, but this time the left side is illuminated.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver remains on the left before it disappears again.
Recent studies suggest that moon phases can affect human behavior. For example, a 2021 survey revealed that 40% of people believe their moods are impacted by the moon’s phases. While this is still debated among scientists, many think the moon’s brightness can influence sleep patterns and overall well-being.
So next time you look up at the moon, consider how it’s not just a pretty sight—it might have an impact on you, too!
