A fresh lunar cycle has begun, signaling the start of the Moon’s journey toward fullness. Over the coming nights, observers can expect to see the celestial body gradually increasing in size across the sky.
According to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, the Moon on September 12 is in the Waxing Crescent phase, with only 2 percent of its surface illuminated. The next Full Moon will arrive on September 26, marking the midpoint of the current cycle.
Moon phases occur as our satellite orbits Earth over approximately 29.5 days. The appearance changes based on the Moon’s position relative to Earth and the Sun, determining how much of its lit side becomes visible from our perspective. Throughout the cycle, the Moon transitions through eight distinct phases, beginning with the New Moon when it sits between Earth and the Sun and appears dark, progressing through the Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, and Waxing Gibbous phases before reaching full illumination. The sequence then reverses with the Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent phases before returning to darkness.
Stargazers tracking lunar activity can use this predictable pattern to anticipate upcoming viewing opportunities throughout the month.
Originally reported by Mashable →
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