The Moon is gradually becoming less visible each night as we near the New Moon phase. With only a few nights remaining before it becomes completely dark, continue reading to discover what might be visible tonight.
As of Monday, May 11, the Moon phase is Waning Crescent. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, 36% of the Moon will be illuminated tonight. Without any visual aids, you can see the Kepler Crater and the Aristarchus Plateau this evening. Using binoculars or a telescope will enhance your view of the Gassendi Crater, Clavius Crater, and Mare Humorum.
There are two Full Moons in May, with the next one occurring on May 31.
The Moon takes about 29.5 days to orbit Earth, experiencing eight distinct phases. Despite always seeing the same side of the Moon, the sunlight’s angle alters this view, leading to full, half, and crescent shapes. The eight main lunar phases include:
– New Moon: Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side facing us is dark.
– Waxing Crescent: A sliver of light appears on the right side in the Northern Hemisphere.
– First Quarter: Half of the right side is lit.
– Waxing Gibbous: More than half is illuminated but not yet full.
– Full Moon: The entire face is lit.
– Waning Gibbous: The light starts fading on the right.
– Third Quarter (Last Quarter): Half is lit, now the left side.
– Waning Crescent: A thin light remains on the left before going dark.