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Moon phase in Palo Alto tonight

Waning Gibbous

78% Illuminated

Tonight in Palo Alto, the moon is in the Waning Gibbous 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 Palo Alto, the Moon is highest at 06:20 (70°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

06:20

Moon at transit: altitude 70° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 23:15 (ENE) • Sets: 12:26 (WNW)

From 37.4°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 1%).

Earth-Moon Distance

369,347 km ( 15,053 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average (appears larger)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

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

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look ENE at 23:15 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 12:26 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 70° altitude at 06:20. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:54 and 04:35.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 4

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.

  • Cygnus
  • Sagittarius
  • Aquila

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Palo Alto? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 06:20 (altitude 70°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Palo Alto tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Palo Alto begins at 21:54 and ends at 04:35 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Palo Alto today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 06:20 .
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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