Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on February 23
It's almost a new lunar phase, and with each night the Moon appears bigger and brighter in our sky. So, naturally, each night there's more and more features to spot on its surface. And tonight is no different, so keep reading to find out what you're looking at.
What is today’s Moon phase?
As of Monday, Feb. 23, the Moon phase is Waxing Crescent. According to NASA's Daily Moon Guide, 36% of the Moon will be lit up tonight.
Without any visual aids, you can see plenty, but three Mares stand out: the Fecunditatis, Tranquillitatis, and Serenitatis. If you add binoculars you'll also be able to see the Endymion Crater, the Mare Nectaris, and the Posidonius Crater. And if you're lucky enough to own a telescope, this will give you a glimpse of the Apollo 16 and 17 landing spots, and the Rupes Altai.
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When is the next Full Moon?
The next Full Moon will be on March 3. The last Full Moon was on Feb. 1.
What are Moon phases?
NASA tells us that the Moon completes a full orbit around Earth in roughly 29.5 days. During this cycle, it passes through eight distinct phases. Although we consistently see the same side of the Moon, the portion illuminated by the Sun shifts as it travels along its orbit. The changing angle of sunlight reflecting off the Moon’s surface is what makes it appear full, partially lit, or nearly dark at different times. The eight phases include:
New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).
Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.
Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.
Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.
Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.
Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.
Lois Mackenzie is a freelance reporter at Mashable. Over the years she has written for many publications, covering everything from the local news to the best pair of running shoes. You can find bylines in publications including Fit&Well, Metro, and Coach magazine, usually covering deals on everything from earbuds to TVs, or guides on how to beat your half marathon time.
Lois also holds a Master's degree in Digital Journalism from Strathclyde University and obtained a Master of Arts in English Literature at the University of Aberdeen.
