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Moon phase in Palmerston tonight

Waning Crescent

27% Illuminated

Tonight in Palmerston, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase.

With illumination at 27%, the sky will be relatively dark. This is an excellent time for stargazing. Faint objects like the Milky Way (if you are away from city lights) or the International Space Station will stand out clearly against the dark background. In Palmerston, the Moon is highest at 10:06 (69°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

10:06

Moon at transit: altitude 69° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 04:02 (E) • Sets: 15:25 (W)

Near the equator (-12.5°), the Moon rises high and fast, offering less atmospheric interference and sharper views.

Clearest hour: 23:30 (clouds 7%).

Earth-Moon Distance

362,988 km ( 21,412 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average (appears larger)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Good altitude for sharp crater details.

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look E at 04:02 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 15:25 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 69° altitude at 10:06. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 19:42 and 05:42.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 3

Rural / Semi-Rural

Decent darkness with some light domes.

“Dark skies provide excellent contrast for observing lunar details and earthshine.”

Stars to look for this month

Look south for the Southern Cross (Crux) high in the sky.

  • Centaurus
  • Crux
  • Scorpius

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Palmerston? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 10:06 (altitude 69°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Palmerston tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Palmerston begins at 19:42 and ends at 05:42 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Palmerston today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 10:06 .
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).

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