We are close to the new moon, which means it is almost the beginning of a new lunar cycle. The lunar cycle is a period of approximately 29.5 days during which the Moon orbits the Earth and appears to change shape as different parts of its sunlit surface become visible from our perspective.
What is the phase of the moon today?
As of Thursday, December 17, the moon phase will be a waning crescent. This means that only 2% of the moon is illuminated tonight, according to NASA daily moon observation.
With such a small patch of the moon, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see anything on its surface tonight.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon will be on January 3. The last full moon was on December 4.
What are the phases of the moon?
according to NASAThe Moon takes about 29.5 days to complete one full orbit. During this time, it goes through a series of phases as it orbits the Earth. Although the same side of the Moon always faces us, the amount of sunlight reflected by its surface changes, which is why it can appear fully lit, partially lit, or completely invisible at different points in the cycle. This process is divided into eight main lunar phases:
New Moon – The Moon is located between the Earth and the Sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it is not visible to the eye).
Speed of light mashable
Waxing Crescent – A small patch of light appears on the right side (northern hemisphere).
First quarter – half of the moon is illuminated on the right side. It looks like a half moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half lit, but not quite full yet.
Full Moon – The entire face of the Moon is fully illuminated and visible.
Waning Gibbous – The moon begins to lose light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half moon, but the left side is now lit.
Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before it darkens again.