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Moon phase in Washington tonight

Waxing Gibbous

70% Illuminated

Tonight in Washington, the moon is in the Waxing 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 Washington, the Moon is highest at 21:45 (57°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

21:45

Moon at transit: altitude 57° (medium).

Rises: 15:11 (E) • Sets: 04:09 (W)

From 38.9°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 23:00 (clouds 0%).

Earth-Moon Distance

382,204 km ( 2,196 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 E at 15:11 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 04:09 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 57° altitude at 21:45.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:35 and 04:35.

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 overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

  • Leo
  • Ursa Major
  • Hydra

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Washington? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 21:45 (altitude 57°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Washington tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Washington begins at 21:35 and ends at 04:35 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Washington today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 21:45 , 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.

Explore Nearby Cities

Moon watching in Downtown DC Moon watching in Mount Vernon Triangle Moon watching in Foggy Bottom Moon watching in Northwest One Moon watching in Columbia Heights Moon watching in H Street NE
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