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Moon phase in Grande Prairie tonight

First Quarter

59% Illuminated

Tonight in Grande Prairie, the moon is in the First Quarter 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 Grande Prairie, the Moon is highest at 21:53 (46°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

21:53

Moon at transit: altitude 46° (medium). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 14:23 (ENE) Sets: 05:00 (WNW)

From 55.2°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 12%).

Earth-Moon Distance

379,280 km ( 5,120 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 14:23 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 05:00 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 46° altitude at 21:53. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 00:06 and 03:34.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 4

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 high overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

  • Leo
  • Ursa Major
  • Hydra

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Grande Prairie?
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 21:53 (altitude 46°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Grande Prairie tonight?
True astronomical darkness in Grande Prairie begins at 00:06 and ends at 03:34 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Grande Prairie today?
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 21:53 .
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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