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Moon phase in Calgary tonight

Waning Gibbous

85% Illuminated

Tonight in Calgary, the moon is in the Waning Gibbous phase.

The moon is very bright tonight (85% 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 Calgary, the Moon is highest at 05:58 (51°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

05:58

Moon at transit: altitude 51° (medium). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 22:53 (ENE) Sets: 12:01 (WNW)

From 51.1°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 03:00 (clouds 10%).

Earth-Moon Distance

374,492 km ( 9,908 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 ENE at 22:53 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 12:01 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 51° altitude at 05:58. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 23:58 and 03:27.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 7

Urban / Inner City

Intense 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 in the sky after midnight for the Summer Triangle.

  • Cygnus
  • Sagittarius
  • Aquila

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Calgary?
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 05:58 (altitude 51°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Calgary tonight?
True astronomical darkness in Calgary begins at 23:58 and ends at 03:27 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Calgary today?
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 05:58 .
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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