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Moon phase in McAllen tonight

New Moon

0% Illuminated

Tonight in McAllen, the moon is in the New Moon phase.

With illumination at 0%, 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. In McAllen, the Moon is highest at 14:16 (89°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

14:16

Moon at transit: altitude 89° (high). Warning: Transit is during daylight.

Rises: 08:10 (ENE) • Sets: 21:32 (WNW)

From 26.2°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

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

Earth-Moon Distance

351,506 km ( 32,894 km closer vs avg)

Closer than average (appears larger)

Camera Settings

ISO 100
Aperture f/11
Shutter 1/125s

Good altitude for sharp crater details.

Where to look

  • Moonrise: Look ENE at 08:10 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed ene horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look WNW at 21:32 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 89° altitude at 14:16. Note: Transit occurs in daylight—moonrise/moonset may be better for photos.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 21:57 and 05:09.
  • Weather: Cloud cover is high—watch for brief gaps near 00:00.

Local Viewing Conditions

Bortle Class 5

Suburban Bright

Noticeable 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 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 McAllen? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 14:16 (altitude 89°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in McAllen tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in McAllen begins at 21:57 and ends at 05:09 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in McAllen today? ▼
Yes, the Moon transits (reaches its highest point) during daylight hours at 14:16 .
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 (appears larger).

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