Waning crescent moon9/9/2023 ![]() Equipment: Canon 1200D, tripod, Tamron 70-300mm lens This sight is often called: “the new Moon in the old Moon’s arms.” Crescent Moon and Earthshine by Ron G, Stafford, UK. This ghostly illumination comes from sunlight reflected off Earth and is appropriately known as Earthshine. But does the dark portion seem to be gently glowing? Binoculars or a small telescope will confirm that it is. Observing a waxing crescent Day 3: EarthshineĪ thin crescent Moon is a beautiful sight hanging in the west after sunset. If you want to capture the Moon’s beauty, read our guides on how to photograph the Moon and how to draw the Moon. These crescent phases make for a great time during which to get a good look at our lunar neighbour, and if you can manage to observe the Moon every night – weather permitting – you’ll notice the terminator creeping across the lunar disc as more – or less – of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun.īelow we’ll reveal what you can see on the Moon during its crescent phase, and specific features or lunar phenomena to look out for.įor more advice on exploring the wonders of the Moon – whatever its phase – read our guide on how to observe the Moon and the best features on the Moon. Credit: BBC Sky at Night Magazine Observing the crescent Moon The inner circle shows what the Moon looks like seen from above its north pole, while the outer circle shows the phase we see from Earth at that time. The waxing crescent phase lasts from about day 1 to day 6 of the lunar cycle, and the waning crescent phase lasts from about day 23 to day 29. ![]() Slowly, less and less of the Moon’s disc is illuminated during the waning crescent phase, until we’re back to new Moon and the cycle begins again. Then, the cycle reverses and goes from full Moon, through a waning gibbous phase until last quarter when, again, the lunar disc is half-illuminated (but this time on the opposite side). ![]() Credit: Yaorusheng / Getty Imagesĭuring a lunar month, the Moon goes from new Moon, through the waxing crescent phase up to first quarter when the Moon’s disc appears half illuminated.Īs more of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun over time, this is known as the waxing gibbous phase, which occurs until full Moon, when the lunar disc is fully illuminated. ![]() The whole lunar cycle lasts around 29 days, and during that time it passes through several stages known as the phases of the Moon. Not only does it look beautiful, but a closer view through binoculars or a telescope will reveal the shadows of craters and other features like lunar maria, emphasised by the terminator (the line dividing the lit and unlit portions of the Moon). A crescent Moon is one of the most spectacular sights to see in the night sky. ![]()
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