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Moon phase in Wheeling tonight

Waning Gibbous

94% Illuminated

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

The moon is very bright tonight (94% 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 Wheeling, the Moon is highest at 03:59 (21°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

03:59

Moon at transit: altitude 21° (low).

Rises: 23:36 (SE) • Sets: 08:18 (SW)

From 42.1°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 20:00 (clouds 6%).

Earth-Moon Distance

402,082 km ( + 17,682 km farther vs avg)

Farther than average (appears smaller)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

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

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look SE at 23:36 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed se horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look SW at 08:18 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 21° altitude at 03:59.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 20:59 and 04:47.

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 Wheeling? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 03:59 (altitude 21°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Wheeling tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Wheeling begins at 20:59 and ends at 04:47 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Wheeling today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 03:59 , 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 farther than average (appears smaller).

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