Tonight, November 17, 2025, the moon is in its Waning Crescent phase, with only 7% of its surface illuminated. This means visibility is minimal, and observing lunar features requires assistance from binoculars or a telescope.
Understanding the Waning Crescent
The Waning Crescent occurs as the moon moves toward the New Moon, where it appears dark from Earth. This phase follows the Third Quarter and precedes the New Moon in the 29.5-day lunar cycle. While the moon itself remains constant, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface changes as it orbits Earth.
What You Can See Tonight
Despite the minimal illumination, observers equipped with binoculars or a telescope may be able to discern the Grimaldi Basin, a dark, low-lying area on the moon’s near side. The low angle of sunlight during this phase accentuates the basin’s shadows, making it a potential target for keen observers.
The Next Full Moon
The next Full Moon will occur on December 4, 2025. This phase marks the peak of lunar illumination, where the entire face of the moon appears bright from Earth.
The Lunar Cycle Explained
The moon’s phases are a predictable result of its orbit around Earth. As the moon circles our planet, different portions of its sunlit surface become visible to us. These phases repeat in a consistent cycle, each lasting approximately 7.4 days.
The eight main phases are:
- New Moon: The moon is between Earth and the sun, appearing dark.
- Waxing Crescent: A sliver of light emerges on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is lit on the right side.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit, approaching fullness.
- Full Moon: The entire face of the moon is illuminated.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to fade on the right side.
- Third Quarter: Half of the moon is lit on the left side.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver remains on the left side before disappearing again.
These phases are not merely aesthetic; they influence various phenomena, including tides, animal behavior, and even some cultural practices. Understanding the lunar cycle provides a deeper appreciation for the celestial mechanics governing our planet
