Third Quarter Moon Phase Visible Surface and Viewing Guide
As of Sunday, Nov. 1, Mashable reported that the Moon is currently in the Third Quarter phase, with 56% of its surface visible, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide tracker. This phase means exactly half of the visible lunar surface is lit as the cycle heads toward the next New Moon. The lunar orbit takes approximately 29.5 days to complete, cycling through eight distinct phases based on the positioning of Earth, the Moon, and the sun.
Observing Lunar Craters Without Visual Aids
Observers can spot specific lunar features tonight without using visual aids. Stargazers should be able to spot the Tycho Crater, Kepler Crater, and the Mare Imbrium. Binoculars help reveal additional geological formations, including the Alphonsus Crater, the Clavius Crater, and the Mare Humorum. Observers utilizing a telescope gain visibility of the Apollo 14 and 15 landing spots alongside the Schiller Crater.
The near impossible is becoming possible.We are building toward a sustained human presence at the lunar South Pole. It begins with Phase 1: CLPS landers and LTV rovers testing the “science of survival” on the lunar surface before heavy HLS cargo landers deliver the mass and… pic.twitter.com/EhqmXAPQzA
Eight Moon Phases Throughout the Lunar Cycle
The complete lunar cycle spans eight distinct phases as the illuminated portion changes. The New Moon occurs when the Moon sits between Earth and the sun, rendering the visible side dark. A Waxing Crescent follows with a small sliver of light on the right side in the Northern Hemisphere. The First Quarter displays half of the Moon lit on the right side, leading into a Waxing Gibbous where more than half is illuminated before the Full Moon illuminates the entire face.
Following the peak illumination, the Waning Gibbous starts losing light on the right side in the Northern Hemisphere. The Third Quarter, or Last Quarter, presents another half-Moon with the left side lit. Finally, a Waning Crescent leaves a thin sliver of light on the left side before the cycle returns to darkness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lunar Phases
When is the next Full Moon?
The next Full Moon will take place on November 24, according to Mashable.
How long does it take for the Moon to orbit Earth?
As NASA explains, the Moon requires about 29.5 days to finish a full orbit around Earth, transitioning through various phases during that period.
What equipment is required to see the Apollo landing spots?
Observers need access to a telescope to view the Apollo 14 and 15 landing spots on the lunar surface, alongside features like the Schiller Crater.
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