The eight phases of the Moon
- New Moon: The Moon sits between the Earth and the Sun, and its lit side faces away from us. Traditionally a time for setting intentions and quiet beginnings.
- Waxing Crescent (today): A thin sliver appears in the evening sky after sunset. Traditionally a time for first steps and building momentum.
- First Quarter: Half of the Moon is lit and it is high in the sky at sunset. Traditionally a time for decisions and pushing through obstacles.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half is lit and growing. Traditionally a time to refine, adjust and keep going.
- Full Moon: The Moon is opposite the Sun and fully lit, rising around sunset. Traditionally a time of culmination, celebration and release.
- Waning Gibbous: The light starts to shrink after the Full Moon. Traditionally a time for gratitude and sharing what you’ve learned.
- Last Quarter: Half lit again, now rising around midnight. Traditionally a time to let go and clear space.
- Waning Crescent: A thin crescent visible before sunrise. Traditionally a time to rest and recharge before the next cycle.
A full cycle from one New Moon to the next takes about 29.5 days. We calculate the Moon for noon Eastern Time; the phase looks the same from anywhere on Earth, though in the Southern Hemisphere the lit side appears flipped. Want the dates and names of every Full Moon this year? See the full moon calendar, or read how today’s Moon colors your daily horoscope.
Frequently asked questions
How is today’s Moon phase calculated?
We calculate the positions of the Sun and the Moon for noon Eastern Time each day. The phase depends on the angle between them, and the illumination shows how much of the Moon’s visible face is lit.
Is the Moon phase the same everywhere?
The phase is the same for everyone on Earth at a given moment, though the exact day of a New or Full Moon can differ by one date across time zones. Our dates use Eastern Time.
Does the Moon phase affect mood or sleep?
Research is mixed: some studies suggest slightly shorter sleep around the Full Moon, others find no effect. Moon rituals are a tradition and a way to pause, not medical advice.