Tonight, November 25, 2025, the moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase, meaning it’s gradually growing fuller after the New Moon. Currently, approximately 24% of the moon’s surface is illuminated as observed by NASA. This phase is a good reminder of the predictable, yet beautiful, cycle the moon follows around Earth.
What You Can See Tonight
With just your eyes, you’ll be able to spot the dark, smooth areas on the moon known as the Fecunditatis and Crisium seas (mares). For observers with binoculars or a telescope, the Endymion and Posidonius craters become visible, adding more detail to the lunar landscape.
This isn’t just about casual observation; understanding moon phases is key to navigation, agriculture, and even biological rhythms in some species. The moon’s gravitational pull influences tides and has been tied to behaviors in marine life.
The Lunar Cycle Explained
The moon completes one full cycle – from New Moon to New Moon – in roughly 29.5 days. During this time, the amount of the moon visible from Earth changes, creating the eight distinct phases:
- New Moon: The moon is between Earth and the sun, appearing dark.
- Waxing Crescent: A sliver of light emerges on the right side.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is lit on the right.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half illuminated, approaching fullness.
- Full Moon: The entire face shines brightly.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to decrease on the right side.
- Third Quarter: The left half is lit.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver remains on the left before disappearing again.
These phases occur because we always see the same side of the moon, but the sun’s angle changes relative to our position on Earth.
Upcoming Full Moon: A Supermoon Finale
The next full moon is scheduled for December 4, and it will be the third consecutive supermoon of the year. Supermoons occur when the full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, making it appear slightly larger and brighter. The previous full moon was on November 5.
The lunar cycle is a constant reminder of the celestial mechanics that have shaped human culture and natural systems for millennia. Understanding these phases isn’t just about stargazing, it’s about recognizing our place within the larger universe.
The moon’s predictable phases continue to fascinate scientists and casual observers alike, demonstrating the beauty and order of the cosmos.
