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Moon phase in Santa Rosa Beach tonight

Waxing Gibbous

70% Illuminated

Tonight in Santa Rosa Beach, 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 Santa Rosa Beach, the Moon is highest at 21:23 (65°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

21:23

Moon at transit: altitude 65° (high).

Rises: 14:56 (E) • Sets: 03:43 (W)

From 30.4°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 00:00 (clouds 4%).

Earth-Moon Distance

381,857 km ( 2,543 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 14:56 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 03:43 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 65° altitude at 21:23.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 20:46 and 04:38.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 3

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 overhead for the Big Dipper and Leo.

  • Leo
  • Ursa Major
  • Hydra

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Santa Rosa Beach? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 21:23 (altitude 65°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Santa Rosa Beach tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Santa Rosa Beach begins at 20:46 and ends at 04:38 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Santa Rosa Beach today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 21:23 , 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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