Moon phase in Anchorage tonight

Last Quarter

36% Illuminated

Tonight in Anchorage, the moon is in the Last Quarter phase.

With illumination at 36%, 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 Anchorage, the Moon is highest at 11:09 (35°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

11:09

Moon at transit: altitude 35° (medium). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 04:21 (E) • Sets: 16:46 (W)

At 61.2° latitude, the Moon often stays low on the horizon, creating long atmospheric paths ideal for 'big moon' photos but softer details.

No clear hour in next 5h (best 91% at 03:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

366,502 km ( 17,898 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 04:21 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
Moonset: Look W at 16:46 for late-night shots.
Highest point: 35° altitude at 11:09. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
No full astronomical darkness tonight at this latitude.
Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 03:00.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 6

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 high overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

Bootes
Virgo
Corona Borealis

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Anchorage? ▼

For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 11:09 (altitude 35°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.

When does astronomical darkness start in Anchorage tonight? ▼

This location does not reach full astronomical darkness tonight due to latitude or season.

Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Anchorage today? ▼

Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 11:09 .

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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