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Moon phase in Anchorage tonight

Last Quarter

43% Illuminated

Tonight in Anchorage, 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 Anchorage, the Moon is highest at 10:49 (5°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

10:49

Moon at transit: altitude 5° (low). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 08:15 (SE)

At 61.2° latitude, the Moon often stays low on the horizon, creating long atmospheric paths ideal for 'big moon' photos but softer details.

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

Earth-Moon Distance

392,949 km ( + 8,549 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 08:15 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed se horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Highest point: 5° altitude at 10:49. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 22:25 and 05:50.
  • Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 22:00.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 6

Suburban Bright

Noticeable 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 Anchorage? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 10:49 (altitude 5°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Anchorage tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Anchorage begins at 22:25 and ends at 05:50 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Anchorage today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 10:49 .
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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