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Moon phase in Sacramento tonight

Waning Gibbous

85% Illuminated

Tonight in Sacramento, the moon is in the Waning Gibbous phase.

The moon is very bright tonight (85% 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 Sacramento, the Moon is highest at 05:28 (63°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

05:28

Moon at transit: altitude 63° (high).

Rises: 22:42 (ENE)

From 38.6°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

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

Earth-Moon Distance

373,650 km ( 10,750 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 22:42 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Highest point: 63° altitude at 05:28.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:57 and 04:26.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 7

Urban / Inner City

Intense 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 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 Sacramento? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 05:28 (altitude 63°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Sacramento tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Sacramento begins at 21:57 and ends at 04:26 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Sacramento today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 05:28 , 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 closer than average (appears larger).

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