As of today, January 24, 2025, the Moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase. Approximately 32% of the lunar surface is illuminated, making it easily visible in the night sky. This phase marks the early stages of the lunar cycle, after the New Moon, and signifies a gradual increase in visible moonlight.
What You Can See
Even without specialized equipment, observers can spot prominent dark areas on the Moon’s surface known as mares (Latin for “seas”). These include the Crisium, Serenitatis, and Fecunditatis basins. Binoculars will reveal further details, such as the Endymion and Posidonius craters. Telescopes provide an even closer view, allowing for observation of historical Apollo landing sites (Apollo 11 and Apollo 17) and geological features like the Rupes Altai fault line.
Understanding Moon Phases
The Moon’s phases are a direct result of its orbit around Earth and the changing angles at which sunlight illuminates its surface. The lunar cycle lasts roughly 29.5 days, during which the Moon progresses through eight distinct phases:
- New Moon: The Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, rendering 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 illuminated.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half of the Moon is lit.
- Full Moon: The entire visible surface is illuminated.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to decrease on the right side.
- Third Quarter (Last Quarter): Half of the Moon is illuminated on the left side.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left before becoming invisible again.
The next Full Moon will occur on February 1, following the last Full Moon on January 3. These cycles have been tracked for millennia, influencing calendars, mythology, and even agricultural practices. The consistent predictability of these phases allows for precise astronomical observations and continued exploration of our nearest celestial neighbor.
