A new lunar phase approaches as the Third Quarter Moon arrives, where half of the Moon’s surface appears illuminated and continues to wane towards the New Moon. On April 9, 2026, the Moon is in a Waning Gibbous phase, with 59% visible according to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide. Observers can see features such as Mare Imbrium and Tycho Crater with the naked eye. Binoculars reveal the Gassendi Crater and Alps Mountains, while a telescope displays Apollo 12’s landing site and Schiller Crater. The next Full Moon is expected on May 1, the first of two in the month. The Moon’s 29.5-day orbit passes through eight phases: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. Each phase offers unique views as the Moon transitions from new to full visibility and back again.
Today’s Moon Phase: See How the Moon Will Look on April 9
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