Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on August 22

The Moon tonight displays more than half of its surface illuminated, presenting an ideal chance for stargazers to observe lunar features. For those uncertain about what to look for, NASA's Daily Moon Guide serves as an excellent resource to identify specific lunar landmarks. Utilizing this tool, we provide a glimpse of what one might expect to see on August 22.

At present, the Moon is in its Waxing Gibbous phase, with approximately 70% of its surface visible. Without optical aids, the Mares Crisium, Serenitatis, and Fecunditatis are visible. Binoculars enhance the viewing experience, revealing the Clavius Crater, the Alps Mountains, and the Archimedes Crater. For those with access to a telescope, the landing sites of Apollo 11, 16, and 17 become visible as well.

Full Moons occur periodically throughout the lunar cycle. The next Full Moon is scheduled for August 28. To understand the Moon's changing appearance, it is helpful to know the various phases it goes through. These phases, resulting from the Moon's orbit around Earth, include New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent.

Each phase represents a different perspective of the Moon's illuminated side as seen from Earth, culminating in a complete cycle that repeats approximately every 29.5 days.