Looking up tonight, the Moon seems quieter than before. Its light has softened, revealing details that hide during a full glow. This change is part of its monthly journey across the night sky.
Tonight’s Moon Phase and Meteor Shower
On Wednesday, 13 August, the Moon is in its Waning Gibbous phase. About 79% of its surface is visible from Earth. This is the second night of the Perseids meteor shower’s peak. The Moon’s glow may hide some streaks of light, but several meteors should still be visible.
Even without equipment, features like the Tycho Crater, Mare Serenitatis, and Oceanus Procellarum can be seen. With binoculars, you can add the Clavius Crater, Alphonsus Crater, and Mare Frigoris to your view. A telescope will reveal the Apollo 11 landing site, the Rima Ariadaeus, and the Linne Crater.
Next Full Moon and Lunar Cycle
The next full moon will appear on 7 September. The last one rose on 9 August. According to NASA, the Moon completes its cycle in about 29.5 days. Its phases are caused by changing angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. While the same side always faces us, the light we see shifts as it moves in orbit.
The eight main phases include the New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent. These phases repeat, marking the Moon’s constant yet ever-changing presence in our skies.
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