Moon enters waning crescent phase in October 2026

The Moon is currently in its waning crescent phase as it approaches the next New Moon, which is expected around October 10, 2026. During this stage of the approximately 29.5-day lunar cycle, the illuminated portion of the Moon's surface decreases each night.

Observers can see varying levels of visibility depending on the date. On October 5, approximately 31% of the surface is visible, while by October 6, visibility decreases to about 21%. The waning crescent is often referred to as a “dawn moon” because it is best observed between the late night and early morning hours, rising around midnight and setting near midday.

With visual aids such as binoculars or telescopes, observers may be able to spot specific lunar features, including the Kepler Crater, the Grimaldi Basin, and the Apollo 12 landing site. The next Full Moon is projected to occur on October 25 or 26.