Moon Phase Unveiled: What to Expect on November 4, 2025
The moon is almost full, but not quite there yet. Despite this, there's still plenty to see in the night sky. Keep reading to uncover the moon's phase and the celestial wonders it holds.
Moon Phase Today: Waxing Gibbous
On Monday, November 4, 2025, the moon enters its Waxing Gibbous phase. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, approximately 98% of the moon's surface will be illuminated. This phase is characterized by more than half of the moon being lit, but it hasn't reached the full moon stage yet.
Celestial Wonders to Spot
For those without visual aids, you can observe the Tycho and Copernicus Craters, as well as the Mare Crisium. With binoculars, the Gassendi and Archimedes Craters, and the Mare Frigoris become more visible. If you have a telescope, you'll be able to see the Linne Crater, the Apollo 11 landing site, and the Fra Mauro Highlands.
Understanding Moon Phases
NASA explains that the moon goes through various phases as it orbits the Earth, taking approximately 29.5 days. These phases are a result of the changing angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Despite always showing the same side, the moon can appear fully lit, partially lit, or even disappear from view. The key factor is the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface, creating a repeating pattern known as the lunar cycle.
The Eight Main Moon Phases
- New Moon: The moon is positioned between the Earth and the sun, making the side we see dark and invisible to the naked eye.
- Waxing Crescent: A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is lit on the right side, resembling a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is illuminated, but it hasn't reached the full moon stage yet.
- Full Moon: The entire face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.
- Waning Gibbous: The moon starts losing light on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
- Third Quarter (or Last Quarter): Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before it goes dark again.
When is the Next Full Moon?
The next full moon will grace the night sky on November 5, 2025.
