What the Moon Looks Like Tonight: A Guide to the 8 Lunar Phases in 2025

Why does the Moon seem to change shape every night? After a period of darkness, it's starting to come back into view. In fact, each night it will get bigger and brighter as we approach the Full Moon.

As of Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, the moon phase is a Waxing Crescent. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 18% of the moon will be lit up tonight. Without any visual aids, you can spot the Mares Crisium and Fecunditatis. If you use binoculars or a telescope, you'll also be able to see the Endymion Crater.

The 29.5-Day Lunar Cycle Explained

The Moon takes around 29.5 days to complete one full cycle as it orbits Earth. This is known as the lunar cycle. Although the same side of the Moon always faces us, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface changes depending on its position. This cosmic alignment is why it can appear fully illuminated, partly lit, or completely invisible. This process is divided into eight main phases.