On September 20, 2023, the moon is in its Waning Crescent phase, with only 2% of its surface illuminated as seen from Earth. This minimal visibility is a result of the moon’s positioning in its approximately 29.5-day lunar cycle, during which it undergoes eight distinct phases. As the moon orbits our planet, varying angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth dictate how much of its surface is lit up.
Understanding Moon Phases
According to NASA, moon phases are determined by the changing angles that occur during the moon’s orbit. While we always see the same side of the moon, the amount of sunlight reflected off it varies. The lunar cycle includes several phases, starting from the New Moon—when the moon is located between the Earth and the Sun and is virtually invisible—to the Full Moon, when it is fully illuminated.
Here’s a breakdown of the primary moon phases in the cycle:
- New Moon: The moon is dark and invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A thin sliver of light appears.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is lit, resembling a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is illuminated but not yet full.
- Full Moon: The entire face is lit and visible.
- Waning Gibbous: The moon begins to lose light.
- Last Quarter: Another half-moon, but the left side is lit.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains before it becomes dark again.
Upcoming Moon Phases
For those interested in observing the moon, it is advisable to look for it during its more illuminated phases, such as the upcoming Full Moon, when it will be at its brightest and most visible.
In summary, the moon’s current Waning Crescent phase signifies a period of diminishing visibility, as only a small portion of its surface is reflecting sunlight. This cyclical journey continues, leading to the next brilliant Full Moon in just a few weeks.
