Tonight, December 14, 2025, the Moon is in its Waning Crescent phase, meaning roughly 25% of its surface is illuminated. This means that the visible portion of the Moon is shrinking as it approaches the New Moon. Understanding these phases isn’t just about observing the sky; it ties into the Moon’s 29.5-day cycle, which has influenced cultures and navigation for millennia.
What You Can See Tonight
Without equipment, observers can spot features like Kepler Crater and the dark, expansive Oceanus Procellarum (Ocean of Storms). Binoculars will reveal the larger Grimaldi Basin and Mare Humorum (Sea of Humors). Telescopes will bring into view smaller details, including Reiner Gamma, Schiller Crater, and Gassendi Crater. These features are all remnants of ancient impacts and volcanic activity.
The Lunar Cycle Explained
The Moon’s phases occur because of its orbit around Earth and the changing angles at which sunlight strikes its surface. Despite always showing us the same side, the amount of illumination varies. Here’s a breakdown of the eight primary phases:
- New Moon: The Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, making its visible side dark.
- Waxing Crescent: A sliver of light appears on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).
- First Quarter: Half of the Moon is lit on the right side.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit, but not yet full.
- Full Moon: The entire visible surface is illuminated.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to decrease on the right side.
- Third Quarter (Last Quarter): The left side is half-lit.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver remains on the left side before disappearing into the New Moon phase.
When to Expect the Next Full Moon
The next full moon will occur on January 3, 2026. This cycle of lunar phases has been tracked for centuries, playing a role in calendars, agriculture, and even folklore.
The Moon’s phases are a constant reminder of the natural rhythms governing our planet. Observing these changes is a simple yet powerful way to connect with the cosmos.
