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Moon phase in Chapel Hill tonight

Waning Crescent

13% Illuminated

Tonight in Chapel Hill, the moon is in the Waning Crescent phase.

With illumination at 13%, the sky will be relatively dark. This is an excellent time for stargazing. Faint objects like the Milky Way (if you are away from city lights) or the International Space Station will stand out clearly against the dark background. Clearest skies are forecast around 22:00 (~16% clouds).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

Check Transit

Aim for when the Moon is highest. Moonrise: 05:02 (NE) • Moonset: 19:23 (WNW)

From 35.9°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 22:00 (clouds 16%).

Earth-Moon Distance

360,794 km ( 23,606 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

None

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look NE at 05:02 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ne horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 19:23 for late-night shots.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 22:22 and 04:09.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 4

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 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 Chapel Hill? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Aim for when the moon is highest in the sky for the sharpest shots.
When does astronomical darkness start in Chapel Hill tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Chapel Hill begins at 22:22 and ends at 04:09 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Chapel Hill today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at — , 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 closer than average.

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