Moon phase in Hilo tonight

Last Quarter

36% Illuminated

Tonight in Hilo, 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 Hilo, the Moon is highest at 09:31 (77°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

09:31

Moon at transit: altitude 77° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 03:12 (E) • Sets: 14:56 (W)

From 19.7°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 22:00 (clouds 52%).

Earth-Moon Distance

363,899 km ( 20,501 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 03:12 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
Moonset: Look W at 14:56 for late-night shots.
Highest point: 77° altitude at 09:31. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
Darkness: Best contrast between 20:07 and 04:25.

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 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 Hilo? ▼

For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 09:31 (altitude 77°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.

When does astronomical darkness start in Hilo tonight? ▼

True astronomical darkness in Hilo begins at 20:07 and ends at 04:25 .

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

Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 09:31 .

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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