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Moon phase in El Cerrito tonight

Waxing Crescent

22% Illuminated

Tonight in El Cerrito, the moon is in the Waxing Crescent phase.

With illumination at 22%, 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 El Cerrito, the Moon is highest at 17:45 (61°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

17:45

Moon at transit: altitude 61° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

No moonrise today • Sets: 00:19 (W)

From 37.9°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 20:00 (clouds 0%).

Earth-Moon Distance

371,639 km ( 12,761 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average (appears larger)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Good altitude for sharp crater details.

Where to look

  • Moonset: Look W at 00:19 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 61° altitude at 17:45. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 22:30 and 03:51.

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 in the sky after midnight for the Summer Triangle.

  • Hercules
  • Lyra
  • Cygnus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in El Cerrito? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 17:45 (altitude 61°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in El Cerrito tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in El Cerrito begins at 22:30 and ends at 03:51 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in El Cerrito today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 17:45 .
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 (appears larger).

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