Moon Phase Calculator

Find out what is today's moon phase with our interactive lunar calculator

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🌑 Today's moon phase emoji

Illumination: --

Age: -- days

Moonrise
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Moonset
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Next phase: --

Current date: --

Moon Phase Emojis Guide

Looking for today's moon phase emoji? Here's a complete guide to moon phase emojis:

🌑

New Moon

0% illuminated

🌒

Waxing Crescent

1-49% illuminated

🌓

First Quarter

50% illuminated

🌔

Waxing Gibbous

51-99% illuminated

🌕

Full Moon

100% illuminated

🌖

Waning Gibbous

99-51% illuminated

🌗

Last Quarter

50% illuminated

🌘

Waning Crescent

49-1% illuminated

Understanding Moon Phases

What Causes Moon Phases?

The lunar phases are created by the relative positions of the Earth, Sun, and Moon. As the Moon orbits around the Earth, different portions of its illuminated hemisphere are visible to us.

The lunar cycle (one complete orbit) takes approximately 29.53 days, during which the Moon transitions through all phases from new moon to full moon and back again.

When the Moon is Full

A full moon occurs when the Moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun, allowing us to see the entire illuminated face of the Moon. Full moons have significant cultural importance across many civilizations and are often associated with various traditions and folklore.

During a full moon, moonrise occurs approximately at sunset, and moonset occurs around sunrise, providing illumination throughout the night.

Significance of Moon Phases

Throughout human history, the Moon's phases have guided agricultural planning, religious ceremonies, and navigation. Many cultures have used lunar calendars for thousands of years.

Full moons have long been associated with various phenomena like increased fertility, heightened emotions, or strange behavior – giving rise to terms like "lunacy" (from "luna," the Latin word for moon).

Today, the Moon's gravitational pull still influences our oceans' tides, some animal behaviors, and continues to fascinate astronomers and skygazers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is today's moon phase?

The current moon phase is displayed at the top of this page. Check our calculator for the most accurate information about today's moon phase.

What is today's moon phase emoji?

You can find today's moon phase emoji in our interactive calculator above. The emoji represents the visual appearance of the moon from Earth today.

How are moonrise and moonset times calculated?

Moonrise and moonset times are calculated based on your location and date using astronomical formulas that consider the Moon's position relative to the horizon at your geographical coordinates. These times vary by location and date.

Can I check moon phases for other dates?

Yes! Use the date selector or the Previous/Next buttons to view moon phases for any date in the past or future.

Why are moonrise and moonset times important?

Moonrise and moonset times are valuable for photographers planning lunar photography, for outdoor activities that benefit from natural moonlight, for astronomical observations, and for cultural or religious practices that follow lunar timing.