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Moon phase in Edinburgh tonight

Last Quarter

34% Illuminated

Tonight in Edinburgh, the moon is in the Last Quarter phase.

With illumination at 34%, 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. In Edinburgh, the Moon is highest at 09:31 (13°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

09:31

Moon at transit: altitude 13° (low). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 05:46 (SE) • Sets: 12:01 (SW)

From 56.0°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 20:00 (clouds 13%).

Earth-Moon Distance

389,170 km ( + 4,770 km farther vs avg)

Near average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Moon is low; expect atmospheric blur.

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look SE at 05:46 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed se horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look SW at 12:01 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 13° altitude at 09:31. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 20:20 and 04:22.

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 overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

  • Leo
  • Cancer
  • Gemini

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Edinburgh? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 09:31 (altitude 13°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Edinburgh tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Edinburgh begins at 20:20 and ends at 04:22 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Edinburgh today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 09:31 .
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.

Explore Nearby Cities

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