Waxing Gibbous Moon Offers Stunning Sight Tonight

NEW YORK, New York — Stargazers can expect to see a stunning Waxing Gibbous Moon lighting up the night sky tonight, September 3. At 80% illumination, the moon will showcase various lunar features for observers on Earth.

Despite lacking visual aids, spotting the Mare Imbrium, Kepler Crater, and Mare Vaporum will be easy. Those with binoculars can also catch a glimpse of the Clavius and Gassendi craters, as well as Mare Frigoris. For astronomers equipped with telescopes, notable sites such as the Apollo 12 and Apollo 15 landing locations, along with two large volcanic peaks nicknamed a “geologic mystery” by NASA, will be visible.

The full moon is set to arrive on September 7, following the previous full moon on August 9. The phases of the moon occur as it orbits Earth every 29.5 days, changing how much of its surface reflects sunlight towards us. During this cycle, we view the same side of the moon, but the lit portion fluctuates, giving rise to various phases such as new moons, half moons, and full moons.

The eight primary moon phases are: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

As the moon is currently in the Waxing Gibbous phase, observers might also notice an increase in personal energy and motivation, a trend often associated with this portion of the lunar cycle. According to astrology experts, these feelings could inspire individuals to focus on personal goals and projects.

The waxing gibbous phase typically lasts until the full moon, which marks a time when the moon’s surface appears to grow in size nightly. So, stargazers are encouraged to look up tonight to witness the moon’s beauty.