Ethan Carter
This evening, a slender crescent of the Moon graces the night sky. Will this minimal illumination allow us to observe any of its surface features?
What Phase of the Moon Are We Experiencing Today?
As of Monday, May 18, the Moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase. Currently, only 3% of the Moon’s surface is illuminated, as reported by NASA’s Daily Moon Guide.
Unfortunately, the amount of the Moon that is lit is insufficient for spotting any details on its surface.
When Will the Next Full Moon Occur?
This month features two Full Moons, with the next one set to occur on May 31.
What Exactly Are Moon Phases?
Nasa explains that the Moon completes a full orbit around Earth in approximately 29.5 days, transitioning through eight distinct phases throughout this journey. Although we consistently view the same side of the Moon, the changing angles of sunlight during its orbit result in the recognizable full, half, and crescent shapes. Here’s a breakdown of the eight primary phases of the lunar cycle:
New Moon – In this phase, the Moon is situated between Earth and the Sun, rendering its illuminated side invisible from our perspective.
Mashable Light Speed
Waxing Crescent – A small portion of light becomes visible on the right side of the Moon (in the Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – At this stage, the right half of the Moon is illuminated, giving it the appearance of a half-Moon.
Waxing Gibbous – Over half of the Moon is illuminated, but it has not yet reached its full phase.
Full Moon – The entire face of the Moon is brightly lit and completely visible.
Waning Gibbous – The Moon begins to dim on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – This phase reveals another half-Moon, but this time the left side is illuminated.
Waning Crescent – A narrow sliver of light remains visible on the left side before it fades to darkness again.
Daniel Mercer
