December 24 Moon: Waxing Crescent Visible

It’s day four of the lunar cycle, which means the Moon is starting to appear in the sky again. Each night, it will grow bigger and brighter as we move closer to the Full Moon.
As of Wednesday, December 24, the Moon is in the Waxing Crescent phase. This means only a small part of the Moon, about 18%, is lit up and visible tonight. According to NASA, this is a great time to observe the Moon’s surface because some of its features become easier to see in the early crescent phase.

Even without binoculars or a telescope, you can spot some interesting areas on the Moon tonight, such as Mares Crisium and Fecunditatis. These are large flat plains, also called “lunar seas,” that stand out against the rest of the Moon’s surface.

For example, the Endymion Crater, a large circular impact crater, can be observed tonight. The shadows cast by the rising sunlight on the Moon make these craters and plains look more dramatic and easier to identify.

Watching the Moon in its Waxing Crescent phase is a peaceful and enjoyable activity. It’s a chance to explore the sky, notice the Moon’s surface features, and follow its journey toward the Full Moon. On clear nights, stepping outside to see the Moon can be both relaxing and educational.

So, tonight, take a few minutes to look up at the sky. You might be able to spot these lunar features and watch the Moon slowly brighten night by night as it grows toward its full glory.