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Moon phase in Aurora tonight

First Quarter

42% Illuminated

Tonight in Aurora, 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 Aurora, the Moon is highest at 19:02 (46°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

19:02

Moon at transit: altitude 46° (medium). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 12:59 (E) • Sets: 00:54 (W)

From 39.7°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 22:00 (clouds 2%).

Earth-Moon Distance

384,522 km ( + 122 km farther 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 E at 12:59 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 00:54 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 46° altitude at 19:02. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 22:33 and 03:29.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 6

Suburban Bright

Noticeable 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.

  • Hercules
  • Lyra
  • Cygnus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Aurora? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 19:02 (altitude 46°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Aurora tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Aurora begins at 22:33 and ends at 03:29 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Aurora today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 19:02 .
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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