Discover Tonight’s Waning Crescent Moon on November 17

On the evening of November 17, 2023, the moon will be in its Waning Crescent phase, exhibiting only 7% illumination. This phase signifies the approach of the New Moon, which will be visible in the coming days. Observers interested in viewing the moon will likely require binoculars or a telescope to discern details on its surface.

Current Moon Visibility

Tonight, the moon will appear nearly invisible to the naked eye. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation, only a small portion of the moon will be lit, making it challenging to spot without assistance. For those equipped with visual aids, the Grimaldi Basin is one feature that may be identifiable.

The Waning Crescent phase is part of the lunar cycle that lasts approximately 29.5 days. During this cycle, the moon’s appearance changes as it orbits Earth, leading to different phases such as the New Moon, Full Moon, and various crescents and gibbous forms.

Understanding Moon Phases

Moon phases are categorized into eight main stages, each describing the varying amounts of sunlight reflecting off the lunar surface as viewed from Earth. The phases are:

• New Moon: The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, making it invisible.
• Waxing Crescent: A small crescent of light appears on the right side.
• First Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated on the right side.
• Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit, but it is not yet full.
• Full Moon: The entire face of the moon is visible and fully illuminated.
• Waning Gibbous: The moon begins to lose light on the right side.
• Third Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated on the left side.
• Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left before it goes dark again.

Following tonight’s Waning Crescent, the next Full Moon will occur on December 4, 2023. This cycle continues to fascinate astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike, providing a rhythmic spectacle in the night sky.