Moon Phase Update: Waxing Crescent Visible on September 13
NASA tracks the Moon's current phase and upcoming Full Moon dates.
1Current Moon Phase
As of September 13, NASA's Daily Moon Guide indicates the Moon is in the Waxing Crescent phase, with only 5% of its surface visible. This phase occurs right after the New Moon when a small sliver of light becomes visible on the Moon's right side in the Northern Hemisphere. The Waxing Crescent marks the beginning of the lunar cycle's growth toward fullness. Observers may find the Moon challenging to spot during this early phase.
2Understanding Lunar Phases
The Moon's appearance changes over a 29.5-day cycle as it orbits Earth, creating what we know as lunar phases. These phases depend on the Moon's position relative to Earth and the Sun, determining how much of its sunlit side faces us. The cycle begins with the New Moon (completely dark) and progresses through crescent, quarter, gibbous, and full phases before repeating. NASA explains this astronomical phenomenon through detailed tracking and public education.
3Eight Distinct Phases
The complete lunar cycle consists of eight phases: New Moon (invisible), Waxing Crescent (right sliver), First Quarter (right half lit), Waxing Gibbous (mostly lit), Full Moon (fully visible), Waning Gibbous (right side darkening), Third Quarter (left half lit), and Waning Crescent (left sliver). Each phase lasts approximately 3.7 days on average. The current Waxing Crescent phase will gradually become more visible each night until reaching the First Quarter.
4Next Full Moon Date
The next Full Moon will occur on September 26, according to NASA's calculations. After the current Waxing Crescent phase, the Moon will progress through First Quarter (half moon) and Waxing Gibbous (mostly full) before reaching complete illumination. Full Moons happen when Earth is directly between the Sun and Moon, allowing the Moon's entire sunlit side to face Earth. This event has cultural significance in many societies and affects ocean tides.
5Visibility Challenges
During the Waxing Crescent phase, the Moon can be difficult to observe due to its proximity to the Sun in the sky and minimal illumination. The thin crescent appears low on the western horizon just after sunset. NASA recommends using their Moon tracking tools to locate the Moon during these early phases. As the cycle progresses, the Moon becomes visible for longer periods each night, rising about 50 minutes later daily.
6Northern Hemisphere Perspective
All phase descriptions apply specifically to the Northern Hemisphere, where the illuminated portion appears on the right during waxing phases and left during waning phases. In the Southern Hemisphere, this orientation is reversed. NASA's Daily Moon Guide provides location-specific information about Moon visibility times and positions. The current 5% illumination means only a tiny fraction reflects sunlight toward Earth.
7Scientific Importance
Studying lunar phases helps scientists understand Earth-Moon-Sun relationships and test astronomical theories. NASA's continuous Moon monitoring contributes to space exploration planning, including future lunar missions. The predictable cycle aids in calendar systems and has guided human activities for millennia. Modern tracking provides precise data for navigation, agriculture, and cultural events tied to lunar phases.
8Observation Tips
To observe the current Waxing Crescent, look west just after sunset with clear skies and minimal light pollution. Binoculars may help spot the thin crescent. Over the next week, watch as more of the Moon becomes visible each evening. NASA's resources offer detailed visibility predictions based on location. The Moon's changing appearance serves as a visible demonstration of celestial mechanics in action.
Original article: Mashable — Moon Phase Update: Waxing Crescent Visible on September 13