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Moon phase in Canberra tonight

Waning Crescent

21% Illuminated

Tonight in Canberra, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase.

With illumination at 21%, 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 Canberra, the Moon is highest at 09:49 (31°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

09:49

Moon at transit: altitude 31° (medium). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 04:46 (ENE) • Sets: 14:04 (WNW)

From -35.3°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 20:00 (clouds 4%).

Earth-Moon Distance

357,535 km ( 26,865 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 04:46 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 14:04 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 31° altitude at 09:49. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 18:28 and 05:38.

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 overhead for Scorpius dominating the zenith.

  • Scorpius
  • Sagittarius
  • Lupus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Canberra? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 09:49 (altitude 31°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Canberra tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Canberra begins at 18:28 and ends at 05:38 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Canberra today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 09:49 .
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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