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Moon phase in Indianapolis tonight

Waxing Gibbous

96% Illuminated

Tonight in Indianapolis, the moon is in the Waxing Gibbous phase.

The moon is very bright tonight (96% 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 Indianapolis, the Moon is highest at 01:09 (51°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

01:09

Moon at transit: altitude 51° (medium).

Rises: 19:02 (E) • Sets: 07:28 (W)

From 39.8°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

No clear hour in next 5h (best 99% at 20:00).

Earth-Moon Distance

376,442 km ( 7,958 km closer vs avg)

Near average distance

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

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

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look E at 19:02 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 07:28 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 51° altitude at 01:09.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:06 and 06:05.
  • Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 20:00.

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 east in the evening to see Pegasus rising.

  • Pegasus
  • Cassiopeia
  • Cygnus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Indianapolis? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 01:09 (altitude 51°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Indianapolis tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Indianapolis begins at 21:06 and ends at 06:05 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Indianapolis today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 01:09 , 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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