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Next 28 nights
Phase is the same worldwide. Rise and set follow the city above.
Alignment shots? Open Sun & Moon Direction for a compass. Star-trail shutter times live on the Night Sky Planner.
Moon in Your Frame
The moon is half a degree across. See it on your camera, then jump to the focal length that makes it a subject.
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Jump to a useful size
Moon Phase FAQ
Tonight’s phase, full moon, and when to shoot
What moon phase is tonight?
Tonight’s moon phase is calculated from the lunar synodic month and shown at the top of this page, including the phase name, percent illumination, and day of the 29.5-day cycle.
Is there a full moon tonight?
A full moon is when illumination is about 95–100%. Check the phase name and illumination above. The 28-day calendar highlights today so you can see if full moon is tonight or coming up.
What moon phase is best for astrophotography?
New moon (0–5% illumination) is best for Milky Way, nebulae, and faint deep-sky objects. Crescent phases still work when the moon is below the horizon. Gibbous and full moon wash out the sky — use those nights for lunar photography or moonlit landscapes.
Does the moon phase look the same everywhere tonight?
Yes. Phase and illumination are the same worldwide on a given date. Rise, set, and the dark-sky window change with your city — pick a location at the top of this page. For a compass and alignment shots, use Sun & Moon Direction.
How often does the moon phase change?
The moon takes about 29.53 days to go from new moon back to new moon. Illumination changes a few percent each night. The calendar on this page shows the next 28 days so you can pick a dark-sky window or a bright moon night.