Today’s Moon Phase Explained: How the Moon Will Appear on November 29, 2025

We’re in the last lunar phase before the full moon, a gentle reminder that we’re approaching a time of illumination. Though we have a few days until the December full moon, which will again shine brightly as a supermoon, the moon is already casting its calming glow, inviting us to pause and appreciate its beauty in the night sky.

What is today’s moon phase? As of Saturday, Nov. 29, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous, with 63% of its surface illuminated, according to NASA’s Daily Moon Observation. So, what can you see when you look up to the heavens tonight? Without any visual aids, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the serene Tranquillitatis and Serenitatis Mares, as well as the distinguished Tycho Crater. For those with binoculars, the Endymion, Alphonsus Craters, and Clavius Craters are also within reach. If you have a telescope, consider gently bringing it out to marvel at the Apollo 15 and 16 landing spots, along with the graceful Fra Mauro Highlands.

When is the next full moon? The next full moon will grace our skies on Dec. 4, marking the conclusion of three consecutive supermoons. The last full moon was observed on Nov. 5.

What are moon phases? NASA beautifully illustrates that the lunar cycle, which spans about 29.5 days, encompasses the Moon’s various phases. These phases reflect how the Moon appears from Earth as it dances in its orbit around us. Although we consistently view the same side of the Moon, the sunlight illuminating its surface varies, causing it to appear full, half-lit, or even hidden from our sight. The cycle consists of eight distinct phases:

• New Moon – The moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, rendering the visible side dark.
• Waxing Crescent – A delicate sliver of light emerges on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).
• First Quarter – Half of the moon glows on the right, forming a lovely half-moon.
• Waxing Gibbous – More than half shines brightly, yet it’s not fully illuminated.
• Full Moon – The entire surface of the moon is radiant and fully revealed.
• Waning Gibbous – The moon begins to lose its light on the right side (in the Northern Hemisphere).
• Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half-moon appears, but now the left side is aglow.
• Waning Crescent – A gentle sliver of light lingers on the left before the moon returns to darkness.