Moon phase in Upper Hutt tonight

Last Quarter

43% Illuminated

Tonight in Upper Hutt, the moon is in the Last 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 Upper Hutt, the Moon is highest at 09:24 (74°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

09:24

Moon at transit: altitude 74° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 01:26 (SE) • Sets: 16:34 (SW)

From -41.1°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

No clear hour in next 5h (best 100% at 22:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

391,432 km ( + 7,032 km farther 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 SE at 01:26 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed se horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
Moonset: Look SW at 16:34 for late-night shots.
Highest point: 74° altitude at 09:24. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
Darkness: Best contrast between 21:17 and 05:41.
Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 22:00.

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

Crux
Carina
Vela

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Upper Hutt? ▼

For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 09:24 (altitude 74°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.

When does astronomical darkness start in Upper Hutt tonight? ▼

True astronomical darkness in Upper Hutt begins at 21:17 and ends at 05:41 .

Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Upper Hutt today? ▼

Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 09:24 .

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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