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Moon phase in Palmerston tonight

Waxing Gibbous

96% Illuminated

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

The moon is very bright tonight (96% illuminated). Deep-sky objects will be harder to see due to the natural light pollution, but it's a perfect opportunity to observe the lunar surface itself. The ISS will still be visible as it is much brighter than most stars. In Palmerston, the Moon is highest at 23:44 (80°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

23:44

Moon at transit: altitude 80° (high).

Rises: 17:31 (E) • Sets: 05:55 (W)

Near the equator (-12.5°), the Moon rises high and fast, offering less atmospheric interference and sharper views.

Clearest hour: 20:30 (clouds 2%).

Earth-Moon Distance

377,790 km ( 6,610 km closer vs avg)

Near average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Bright moon; try 'Looney 11' rule (f/11).

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look E at 17:31 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 05:55 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 80° altitude at 23:44.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 19:52 and 05:22.

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 north to see Pegasus and the Great Square.

  • Capricornus
  • Aquarius
  • Piscis Austrinus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Palmerston? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 23:44 (altitude 80°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Palmerston tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Palmerston begins at 19:52 and ends at 05:22 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Palmerston today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 23:44 , 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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