ISS-over.me

Moon phase in Mackay tonight

Full Moon

100% Illuminated

Tonight in Mackay, the moon is in the Full Moon phase.

The moon is very bright tonight (100% illuminated). Deep-sky objects will be harder to see due to the natural light pollution, but it's a perfect opportunity to observe the lunar surface itself. The ISS will still be visible as it is much brighter than most stars. In Mackay, the Moon is highest at 00:30 (59°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

00:30

Moon at transit: altitude 59° (medium).

Rises: 18:33 (E) • Sets: 06:22 (WNW)

From -21.2°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 5%).

Earth-Moon Distance

370,688 km ( 13,712 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average (appears larger)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Bright moon; try 'Looney 11' rule (f/11).

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look E at 18:33 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 06:22 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 59° altitude at 00:30.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 19:14 and 04:33.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 5

Suburban Bright

Noticeable light pollution.

“City lights won’t stop you seeing the Moon, but they can reduce contrast for photos. Avoid direct streetlights.”

Stars to look for this month

Look north to see Pegasus and the Great Square.

  • Capricornus
  • Aquarius
  • Piscis Austrinus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Mackay? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 00:30 (altitude 59°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Mackay tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Mackay begins at 19:14 and ends at 04:33 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Mackay today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 00:30 , which is outside of daylight hours.
What settings should I use for Moon photography? ▼
Start with ISO 100, Aperture f/11, and Shutter Speed 1/125s (the "Looney 11" rule). Adjust based on the moon's brightness—brighter phases allow faster shutter speeds. A tripod is recommended for sharp shots.
Does the Moon look bigger tonight? ▼
The "Moon Illusion" can make it look huge near the horizon. Physically, tonight the Moon is closer than average (appears larger).

Explore Nearby Cities

Moon watching in Rockhampton Moon watching in Townsville Moon watching in Gladstone Moon watching in Bundaberg Moon watching in Hervey Bay Moon watching in Cairns
← Back to Mackay Hub ISS Visibility → Tiangong Visibility → Meteor Showers →