With the Moon nearing its full phase in just a few days, there’s a wealth of features visible on its surface.
Today’s Lunar Phase
On Sunday, March 29, the Moon is in its Waxing Gibbous phase. Information from NASA’s Daily Moon Guide indicates that 85% of the Moon’s surface will be illuminated this evening.
This evening, naked-eye observers can identify the Serenitatis, Imbrium, and Vaporum Mares. Binoculars will reveal additional features such as the Mare Frigoris, Archimedes Crater, and Clavius Crater. For those with a telescope, opportunities include viewing the Caucasus Mountains, the Apollo 12 landing site, and the Linne Crater.
When to Expect the Next Full Moon
For observers in North America, the upcoming Full Moon is projected to occur on April 1st.
What Exactly Are Lunar Phases?
As stated by NASA, the Moon revolves around Earth approximately every 29.5 days, exhibiting eight unique phases during this cycle. Even though the same lunar face consistently points towards us, the amount of sunlight reflecting off it changes as it orbits, causing it to look full, half, or a slender crescent. These evolving appearances are termed lunar phases, and there are eight of them:
New Moon – Positioned between Earth and the sun, the visible side of the Moon is entirely dark, rendering it unseen to the naked eye.
Mashable Light Speed
Waxing Crescent – A delicate sliver of illumination becomes apparent on the right edge (for observers in the Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter – The right half of the Moon is lit, presenting the appearance of a half-Moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half of the Moon is illuminated, though it has not yet reached its full state.
Full Moon – The entire lunar disc is fully lit and completely observable.
Waning Gibbous – The Moon begins to diminish in brightness from its right side (Northern Hemisphere).
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Again appearing as a half-Moon, but this time with its left side illuminated.
Waning Crescent – Only a slender arc of light remains on the left side before the Moon once again darkens.