the Moon is currently in its waning crescent phase, meaning less than half of the lunar surface visible from Earth is illuminated. According to NASA’s Daily Moon Guide, 45% of the Moon’s visible surface will be lit on Monday, November 2, 2026, before illumination continues to decrease toward the new moon.
Observers without optical equipment should be able to identify the Tycho Crater, Kepler Crater and Mare Imbrium. Binoculars may reveal the Alphonsus and Clavius craters, as well as the Grimaldi Basin. With a telescope, viewers can also look for the Apollo 12 landing site, Reiner Gamma and the Schiller Crater.
The next Full moon is expected on November 24.
The Moon completes its cycle of phases in approximately 29.5 days as it orbits Earth. Its position relative to Earth and the Sun determines how much of its illuminated surface is visible. The sequence includes the New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter and Waning Crescent, after which the cycle begins again.
Sources: Mashable.