Moon phase today explained: What the Moon will look like on March 30, 2026
The Moon is nearing its full phase, which means most of its surface is illuminated by the Sun. It operates in eight phases, gradually moving from complete darkness to full illumination before starting the cycle again. Keep reading to find out how much is on tonight.
What is the phase of the Moon today?
Since Monday March 30, the phase of the Moon has been waxing gibbous. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, 92% of the Moon will be illuminated tonight.
This evening, without visual aid, you will be able to see the craters Tycho and Kepler, as well as Mare Serenitatis. With binoculars you can also see Mare Frigoris, Archimedes Crater and Mare Nectaris. With a telescope, admire the Descartes Highlands, Schiller Crater and Linne Crater.
When will the next Full Moon occur?
In North America, the next Full Moon is expected to occur on April 1st.
What are the phases of the Moon?
According to NASA, the Moon completes one orbit around Earth in approximately 29.5 days, passing through eight distinct phases. While the same side of the Moon always faces us, sunlight illuminates different parts as it moves, making it appear as a full, half, or narrow crescent. These changing appearances are known as lunar phases, and there are eight in total:
New Moon – The Moon sits between the Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it’s invisible to the naked eye).
Crushable speed of light
Waxed Crescent – A small burst of light appears on the right side (northern hemisphere).
First Quarter – Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half moon.
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit, but it’s not quite full yet.
Full Moon – The entire face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.
Gibbous Decline – The Moon begins to lose light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half Moon, but now the left side is lit.
Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before turning dark again.
