Tonight's First Quarter Moon: How to Spot the 47% Glow and Apollo 17's Legacy

Looking for a reason to look up tonight? A near-perfect half-moon is claiming the sky. On this Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, the moon enters its First Quarter phase. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, exactly 47% of the lunar surface will be illuminated tonight. It's the moment when the right side of the moon is lit, marking the midway point between the new moon and the upcoming full moon.

From Mares to Mountains: Observation Guide

You don't need high-tech gear to enjoy the view. With the naked eye, you can easily spot the dark basaltic plains known as Mares Crisium, Fecunditatis, and Serenitatis. If you have a pair of binoculars, the Endymion and Posidonius craters will pop out with stunning clarity against the terminator line—the divide between light and shadow.

For those with a telescope, tonight offers a rare glimpse into history. You can pinpoint the Apollo 17 landing spot, where humans last walked on the lunar surface. The Caucasus Mountains and the Rima Hyginus, a fascinating volcanic trench or 'hole' in the lunar crust, are also visible under these specific lighting conditions.

The Lunar Cycle and What's Next

The moon takes approximately 29.5 days to complete its cycle. After tonight's 47% illumination, it'll continue to grow into a Waxing Gibbous. While the last full moon occurred on Dec. 4, the next full moon is set to brighten the new year on Jan. 3, 2026.