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Moon phase in Santa Barbara tonight

Last Quarter

36% Illuminated

Tonight in Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, the Moon is highest at 10:04 (62°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

10:04

Moon at transit: altitude 62° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 03:41 (E) • Sets: 15:31 (W)

From 34.4°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 01:00 (clouds 34%).

Earth-Moon Distance

365,075 km ( 19,325 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 03:41 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 15:31 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 62° altitude at 10:04. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:29 and 04:20.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 4

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 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 Santa Barbara? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 10:04 (altitude 62°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Santa Barbara tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Santa Barbara begins at 21:29 and ends at 04:20 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Santa Barbara today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 10:04 .
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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