The Moon is currently in a Waxing Gibbous phase, meaning over 80% of its surface is illuminated as of February 27, 2026. This makes for excellent viewing conditions, even with the naked eye.
Visible Features Tonight
Tonight’s bright Moon presents an opportunity to observe several prominent features. Without equipment, you can readily see the dark, smooth plains known as Mare Tranquillitatis (Sea of Tranquility), Mare Vaporum (Sea of Vapors), and Mare Serenitatis (Sea of Serenity).
With binoculars, observers can also pick out Mare Nectaris (Sea of Nectar) and the craters Alphonsus and Endymion. For those with telescopes, the historic landing sites of Apollo 16 and Apollo 11, as well as the dramatic Rupes Altai (Altai Scarp) become visible. These high-resolution features demonstrate how close we are to the next full moon.
When to Expect the Next Full Moon
The next Full Moon is scheduled for March 3rd, 2026. The previous Full Moon occurred on February 1st, meaning the lunar cycle is progressing as expected.
Understanding Moon Phases
The Moon orbits Earth in roughly 29.5 days, and during this time, the amount of its illuminated surface changes from our perspective. This creates the distinct phases we recognize:
- New Moon: The Moon is between Earth and the Sun, making its visible side dark.
- Waxing Crescent: A small sliver of light appears on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).
- First Quarter: Half of the Moon is lit on the right.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half of the Moon is illuminated but not yet full.
- Full Moon: The entire visible face is lit.
- Waning Gibbous: Light begins to fade on the right side.
- Third Quarter: Half of the Moon is lit on the left.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left before disappearing.
These shifts in sunlight create the familiar cycle that has captivated observers for centuries.
The Moon’s predictable cycle continues to provide both scientific data and awe-inspiring views for stargazers.
