ISS-over.me

Moon phase in Grand Rapids tonight

Waning Crescent

26% Illuminated

Tonight in Grand Rapids, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase.

With illumination at 26%, 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. Best contrast is between 21:24 and 06:17.

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

Check Transit

Aim for when the Moon is highest. Moonrise: 06:51 (ESE) • Moonset: 16:08 (WSW)

From 43.0°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

No clear hour in next 5h (best 100% at 20:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

392,490 km ( + 8,090 km farther vs avg)

Average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

None

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look ESE at 06:51 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ese horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WSW at 16:08 for late-night shots.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:24 and 06:17.
  • Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 20:00.

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 high overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

  • Leo
  • Cancer
  • Gemini

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Grand Rapids? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Aim for when the moon is highest in the sky for the sharpest shots.
When does astronomical darkness start in Grand Rapids tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Grand Rapids begins at 21:24 and ends at 06:17 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Grand Rapids today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at — , 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 average distance.

Explore Nearby Cities

Moon watching in Lansing Moon watching in South Bend Moon watching in Flint Moon watching in Ann Arbor Moon watching in Kenosha Moon watching in Milwaukee
← Back to Grand Rapids Hub ISS Visibility → Tiangong Visibility → Meteor Showers →