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Moon phase in Mackay tonight

Waxing Gibbous

70% Illuminated

Tonight in Mackay, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase.

The moon is moderately bright tonight. While it might wash out the faintest stars, you can still enjoy spotting major constellations and planets. The moon itself will be a beautiful sight, offering good contrast along the terminator line. In Mackay, the Moon is highest at 20:13 (58°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

20:13

Moon at transit: altitude 58° (medium).

Rises: 14:21 (ENE) • Sets: 02:09 (W)

From -21.2°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 36%).

Earth-Moon Distance

379,498 km ( 4,902 km closer vs avg)

Near average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Good altitude for sharp crater details.

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look ENE at 14:21 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 02:09 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 58° altitude at 20:13.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 18:58 and 05:03.

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 south for the Southern Cross (Crux) high in the sky.

  • Crux
  • Centaurus
  • Virgo

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Mackay? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 20:13 (altitude 58°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Mackay tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Mackay begins at 18:58 and ends at 05:03 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Mackay today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 20:13 , 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 near average distance.

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