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Moon phase in Richland tonight

Waxing Gibbous

96% Illuminated

Tonight in Richland, 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 Richland, the Moon is highest at 00:26 (45°).

Cloud Forecast (Next 5h)

Best time to photograph the Moon tonight

Best Time to Shoot

00:26

Moon at transit: altitude 45° (medium).

Rises: 18:17 (E) • Sets: 06:49 (W)

From 46.3°, you get a balanced view. Catch the Moonrise for the best landscape context.

Clearest hour: 21:00 (clouds 1%).

Earth-Moon Distance

376,491 km ( 7,909 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 18:17 for horizon compositions. Find a low, unobstructed e horizon (water/fields/rooftops help).
  • Moonset: Look W at 06:49 for late-night shots.
  • Highest point: 45° altitude at 00:26.
  • Darkness: Best contrast between 20:29 and 05:08.

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 east in the evening to see Pegasus rising.

  • Pegasus
  • Cassiopeia
  • Cygnus

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to photograph the Moon in Richland? ▼
For detailed craters, shoot during the First Quarter or Last Quarter phases. Tonight, the Moon is highest in the sky at 00:26 (altitude 45°), which is usually the sharpest time to shoot.
When does astronomical darkness start in Richland tonight? ▼
True astronomical darkness in Richland begins at 20:29 and ends at 05:08 .
Is the Moon's highest point in daylight in Richland today? ▼
No, the Moon transits at 00:26 , 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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