The Moon is currently in its waxing crescent phase, meaning it appears as a thin sliver of light in the sky. As of December 20, 2025, observers in the U.S. will see very little of the Moon illuminated – approximately 0% according to NASA’s observations. For some regions, depending on the time zone, today marks the official beginning of the new lunar cycle.
What Does ‘Waxing Crescent’ Mean?
The term “waxing” describes the period when the visible portion of the Moon is increasing after a New Moon. “Crescent” refers to the curved, sickle-like shape. Because the Moon orbits Earth, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface changes, creating these distinct phases.
Understanding Lunar Cycles
The Moon completes one full cycle – from New Moon to New Moon – in roughly 29.5 days. This is due to its orbit around Earth. Though we always see the same side of the Moon, the varying angles of sunlight create the illusion of changing shapes. Here’s a breakdown of the eight primary lunar phases:
- New Moon: Invisible; the side facing Earth is unlit.
- Waxing Crescent: A sliver appears on the right (Northern Hemisphere).
- First Quarter: Half-lit, looking like a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half illuminated.
- Full Moon: Fully lit and visible.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to decrease on the right.
- Third Quarter: Half-lit again, but now the left side is bright.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver remains on the left before disappearing.
Looking Ahead: When’s the Next Full Moon?
The next Full Moon is scheduled for January 3rd. The previous Full Moon occurred on December 4th. Tracking these cycles helps understand the predictable rhythm of the lunar phases, which have influenced cultures and timekeeping for centuries.
The Moon’s phases are a fundamental aspect of our natural world, affecting tides, ecosystems, and even human perception of time. Paying attention to these cycles offers a deeper connection to the cosmos.
The Moon’s current minimal visibility is a reminder that even in darkness, the cycle of light and shadow continues, preparing for the next full illumination.
