Moon Phase Today (June 18, 2026): The moon is making its way after a new moon, with a slim and crescent shape, which will be easier to spot over the next several evenings. Today, the moon phase is crescent, and 23% of the moon will be visible. Here’s everything you need to know about the Moon phase today, lunar details, upcoming phases, timings, how to watch, and more.
What is the Moon Phase Today?
As of today, June 18, 2026, the moon phase is waxing crescent, and tonight, 23% of the moon will be visible. Watchers can watch the Mares Fecunditatis and Crisium with their naked eyes, without using any equipment.Â
However, with the help of equipment like binoculars or a telescope, watchers will be able to catch a glimpse of the Endymion Crater.
Moon Phase Today: Lunar Details
Today’s lunar details are:
-
Illumination: Approximately 23% of the Moon’s surface is illuminated.
-
Lunar Age: The Moon is on day 4 of its current 29.5-day lunar cycle.
-
Visibility: Watchers can spot the slim crescent low in the western sky just after sunset.
Moon Phase Today: Tonight Phase
Tonight’s moon phase is Waxing Crescent.
Moon Phase Today: Timings
The Waxing Crescent actually rises in the eastern sky before noon but remains lost in the Sun’s glare.
Moon Phase Today: Visibility
Watchers’ ideal opportunity starts immediately after sunset. Look low in the western sky. The Moon will follow the Sun below the horizon and set before midnight.
Moon Phase Today: Next Full Moon
The next full moon will take place on June 29, 2026.
What are Moon Phases?
Here are the different phases of the moon:
-
New Moon – The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the visible side is dark.
-
Waxing Crescent – A small sliver of light appears on the right side.
-
First Quarter – Half of the Moon is lit on the right side.
-
Waxing Gibbous – More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full.
-
Full Moon – The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and completely visible.
-
Waning Gibbous – The Moon starts losing light on the right side.
-
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) – Another half-Moon, but the left side is lit.
-
Waning Crescent – A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.
Moon Phase Today: Upcoming Phases
The current lunar cycle will progress through these primary phases over the coming weeks:
-
First Quarter: June 21, 2026
-
Full Moon (Strawberry Moon): June 29, 2026
-
Third Quarter: July 8, 2026
-
New Moon: July 14, 2026
Today’s Waxing Crescent moon phase on June 18, 2026, represents the first visible growth stage of the current lunar cycle.
