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Moon phase in Upper Hutt tonight

Waning Crescent

6% Illuminated

Tonight in Upper Hutt, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase.

With illumination at 6%, the sky will be relatively dark. This is an excellent time for stargazing. Faint objects like the Milky Way (if you are away from city lights) or the International Space Station will stand out clearly against the dark background. Best contrast is between 18:36 and 06:03.

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

Check Transit

Aim for when the Moon is highest. Moonrise: 07:53 (NE) • Moonset: 15:28 (NW)

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

No clear hour in next 5h (best 90% at 01:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

363,587 km ( 20,813 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

None

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look NE at 07:53 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ne horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look NW at 15:28 for late-night shots.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 18:36 and 06:03.
  • Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 01:00.

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 overhead for Scorpius dominating the zenith.

  • Scorpius
  • Sagittarius
  • Lupus

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. Aim for when the moon is highest in the sky for the sharpest shots.
When does astronomical darkness start in Upper Hutt tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Upper Hutt begins at 18:36 and ends at 06:03 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Upper Hutt today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at — , 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 closer than average.

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