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Moon phase in Los Angeles tonight

First Quarter

59% Illuminated

Tonight in Los Angeles, the moon is in the First 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 Los Angeles, the Moon is highest at 20:51 (67°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

20:51

Moon at transit: altitude 67° (high).

Rises: 14:04 (ENE) • Sets: 03:28 (WNW)

From 34.1°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 02:00 (clouds 80%).

Earth-Moon Distance

377,978 km ( 6,422 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 14:04 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 03:28 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 67° altitude at 20:51.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:03 and 04:37.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 8

Urban / Inner City

Intense light pollution.

“Light pollution reduces contrast, but the Moon is bright. For sharp detail, shoot when the Moon is high.”

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 Los Angeles? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 20:51 (altitude 67°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Los Angeles tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Los Angeles begins at 21:03 and ends at 04:37 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Los Angeles today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 20:51 , 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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