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Moon phase in New York City tonight

Waning Crescent

27% Illuminated

Tonight in New York City, 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 New York City, the Moon is highest at 10:45 (61°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

10:45

Moon at transit: altitude 61° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 03:57 (ENE) • Sets: 16:32 (W)

From 40.7°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 20:00 (clouds 65%).

Earth-Moon Distance

360,264 km ( 24,136 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 ENE at 03:57 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 16:32 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 61° altitude at 10:45. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:56 and 03:47.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 9

Urban / Inner City

Intense light pollution.

“Light pollution reduces contrast, but the Moon is bright. For sharp detail, shoot when the Moon is high.”

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 New York City? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 10:45 (altitude 61°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in New York City tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in New York City begins at 21:56 and ends at 03:47 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in New York City today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 10:45 .
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).

Explore Nearby Cities

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