On November 4, 2025, skywatchers will be treated to a stunning view of the waxing gibbous moon. While not quite full, the lunar disk will be nearly complete, illuminating the night sky with 98% of its surface visible.
What to Expect: The Waxing Gibbous Phase
The “waxing gibbous” phase signifies a stage in the lunar cycle where more than half of the moon appears illuminated, but it hasn’t reached its full, radiant state. This phase occurs between the first quarter and the full moon. The visibility of the moon is excellent, offering a prime opportunity for detailed observation.
Visible Features with the Naked Eye, Binoculars, and Telescope
Even without specialized equipment, the waxing gibbous moon reveals fascinating details. Those looking up will be able to spot the Tycho and Copernicus craters, as well as the dark expanse of Mare Crisium.
Binoculars offer enhanced views, particularly for the Gassendi and Archimedes craters, along with the intriguing Mare Frigoris.
Telescopes bring the lunar surface into even greater detail, allowing viewers to identify the Linne Crater, pinpoint the site of the historic Apollo 11 landing, and explore the rugged Fra Mauro Highlands.
When is the Next Full Moon?
The full moon will rise on November 5, 2025. This provides a relatively short timeframe to appreciate the subtle differences between the waxing gibbous and fully illuminated lunar phases.
Understanding Moon Phases: A Cycle of 29.5 Days
The moon’s changing appearance, known as the lunar phases, results from its orbit around Earth and the shifting angles between the Sun, Moon, and our planet. Despite constantly orbiting, we always see the same side of the moon. The phases represent the varying amounts of sunlight reflected off the moon’s surface as it progresses through its 29.5-day cycle.
The eight primary moon phases are:
- New Moon: The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering the side facing us dark and effectively invisible.
- Waxing Crescent: A small, curved sliver of light appears on the right side.
- First Quarter: Half of the moon appears illuminated on the right side, resembling a half-moon.
- Waxing Gibbous: More than half of the moon is lit, but it hasn’t reached its full brightness.
- Full Moon: The entire lunar surface facing Earth is fully illuminated and readily visible.
- Waning Gibbous: The moon begins to decrease in brightness on the right side.
- Third Quarter (or Last Quarter): Another half-moon appearance, but with the left side illuminated.
- Waning Crescent: A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before transitioning back to the new moon phase.
Observing the moon through its various phases provides a unique window into the celestial dynamics of our solar system, offering a captivating experience for both casual skywatchers and seasoned astronomers alike.
