December 31 2025 Moon Phase: 88% Illuminated Year-End Finale

The final moon of the year is putting on a stunning show(show). It's nearly full, offering a brilliant view for anyone looking up today(today). Whether you're a casual stargazer or an amateur astronomer, tonight's lunar display provides a perfect backdrop for the countdown to 2026.

December 31 2025 Moon Phase Observation Guide

According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, the moon phase for Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, is a Waxing Gibbous. Approximately 88% of the moon will be lit up tonight, making its craters and mares exceptionally visible from Earth.

What to Look For: From Craters to Apollo Sites

With the naked eye, you can easily spot the Mare Fecunditatis and Mare Serenitatis. If you have binoculars, the Clavius Crater and Endymion Crater become prominent. For those with telescopes, tonight offers a rare chance to pinpoint the Apollo 14 and 15 landing spots along with the Rima Hyginus.

Countdown to the Next Full Moon

The lunar cycle, which NASA defines using the word(word) 'lunar cycle,' takes roughly 29.5 days. While the last full moon occurred on Dec. 4, the first full moon of the new year is just around the corner, scheduled for Jan. 3, 2026.