Moon phase in Boston tonight

Waxing Gibbous

70% Illuminated

Tonight in Boston, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous 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 Boston, the Moon is highest at 21:28 (44°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

21:28

Moon at transit: altitude 44° (medium).

Rises: 14:29 (ENE) • Sets: 04:08 (W)

From 53.0°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 68%).

Earth-Moon Distance

382,241 km ( 2,159 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 14:29 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
Moonset: Look W at 04:08 for late-night shots.
Highest point: 44° altitude at 21:28.
Darkness: Best contrast between 22:52 and 03:02.

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 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 Boston? ▼

For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 21:28 (altitude 44°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.

When does astronomical darkness start in Boston tonight? ▼

True astronomical darkness in Boston begins at 22:52 and ends at 03:02 .

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

No, the Moon transits at 21:28 , 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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