The waxing phase of the moon on November 3, 2025, will showcase 94% illumination. This celestial event is crucial for lunar observers and enthusiasts.
Moon Phase Details: Waxing Gibbous
During this period, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase. As the moon continues its 29.5-day orbit around Earth, it reflects sunlight that varies based on its position relative to the Earth and Sun.
Observing the Moon’s Features
Different viewing equipment enhances the experience of gazing at the moon. Without using any tools, observers can spot:
- Tycho Crater
- Mare Fecunditatis
- Oceanus Procellarum
For those using binoculars, additional features become visible, including:
- Gassendi Crater
- Archimedes Crater
- Mare Frigoris
Using a telescope allows viewers to see further details such as:
- Rima Ariadaeus
- Apollo 15 and 16 landing sites
- Fra Mauro Highlands
Upcoming Full Moon
Mark your calendars for November 5, 2025, when the full moon will occur just two days after this waxing phase. The full moon represents complete illumination, making it an ideal time for moon gazing.
The Lunar Cycle Explained
Nasa has detailed the lunar cycle, which comprises eight distinct phases:
- New Moon: The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering it invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A thin sliver of light appears on the right side.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated on the right side.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is illuminated, but it is not yet full.
- Full Moon: The entire visible face is bright and illuminated.
- Waning Gibbous: Illumination begins to decrease from the right.
- Third Quarter: Half-moon illumination appears on the left side.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left before the cycle restarts.
Understanding these phases enhances the appreciation of lunar events. The waxing gibbous phase is an excellent opportunity for observation, with great visibility of the moon’s surface features.
