Moon phase in Fairbanks tonight

Waxing Gibbous

96% Illuminated

Tonight in Fairbanks, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase.

The moon is very bright tonight (96% illuminated). Deep-sky objects will be harder to see due to the natural light pollution, but it's a perfect opportunity to observe the lunar surface itself. The ISS will still be visible as it is much brighter than most stars. In Fairbanks, the Moon is highest at 01:23 (26°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

01:23

Moon at transit: altitude 26° (low).

Rises: 19:11 (E) • Sets: 08:05 (W)

At 64.8° 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 97% at 23:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

377,783 km ( 6,617 km closer vs avg)

Near average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100

Aperture f/11

Shutter 1/125s

Bright moon; try 'Looney 11' rule (f/11).

Where to look

Moonrise: Look E at 19:11 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
Moonset: Look W at 08:05 for late-night shots.
Highest point: 26° altitude at 01:23.
Darkness: Best contrast between 22:33 and 04:51.
Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 23:00.

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 east in the evening to see Pegasus rising.

Pegasus
Cassiopeia
Cygnus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Fairbanks? ▼

For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 01:23 (altitude 26°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.

When does astronomical darkness start in Fairbanks tonight? ▼

True astronomical darkness in Fairbanks begins at 22:33 and ends at 04:51 .

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

No, the Moon transits at 01:23 , 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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