THE LUNAR PHASE GUIDE · 02 / 08

Waxing Crescent

A little light. A little momentum.

The waxing crescent comes after new Moon and before first quarter. “Waxing” tells you that the illuminated area is growing; “crescent” means less than half the visible disc is lit. Over successive evenings, the sliver becomes wider.

See the next 10 days

Between 0% and 50% illuminatedIllustration · Northern Hemisphere orientation

LOOK UP

When can you see it?

Early evening, towards the west

Look towards the western sky after sunset, with a clear horizon. The youngest crescent can be difficult to see and sets relatively soon. Later in this phase, the Moon stays up longer. The exact viewing window depends on your location and the season.

Why can I sometimes see the dark part too?

That gentle glow is called earthshine: sunlight reflected from Earth reaches the Moon and returns to your eyes. It can reveal a faint outline around the much brighter crescent.

Astronomy reference: NASA’s guide to Moon phases ↗

EIGHT PHASES. ONE CONTINUOUS CYCLE.

Meet every side of the Moon.

THERE’S MORE TO YOUR DAY

A little perspective.
Written in the stars.

Now that you’ve met the Moon, explore today’s horoscope. Find a fresh perspective on love, work and everyday life.

Read today’s horoscope

YOUR EVERYDAY UNIVERSE, IN LUMI

Stay close to
your changing world.

Follow the Moon’s phases, explore your daily horoscope and find a little time for yourself. Bring your everyday rituals together in Lumi.

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