Last Quarter Moon
Last quarter is the waning half Moon with the bright side on the left for Northern Hemisphere observers as it heads toward new moon.
Next Last Quarter
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How this phase works
The Moon has completed about three quarters of its orbit since the last new moon. We again see half the disk lit, but the opposite half compared with first quarter.
What you see in the sky
The Moon rises late and crosses the morning sky. The terminator still highlights craters, now on the opposite limb from first quarter. Evenings stay dark until it rises around midnight, which is handy for stargazing early in the night.
Clouds and visibility
Morning cloud banks are common in many climates. A clear dawn window can give a crisp view before twilight brightens the sky.
Moonrise and moonset
Last quarter moons often rise around midnight and set around midday. The morning hours before dawn are usually the best time to catch the half disk high in the sky.
Viewing tips
Set an alarm for pre-dawn if you want a quiet view. Coffee and a coat help. Binoculars along the terminator still reward early risers.
Photography tips
Pair the waning half Moon with dawn colors. Keep exposures short to avoid blur if you are hand-holding. Watch for dew on lenses in cool mornings.
Folklore and traditional names
In many gardening traditions the waning Moon is the time for pruning, harvesting and root crops. It is folklore, not science, but it is still widely followed.
Tides and other effects
Like first quarter, tides are often neap to moderate because the Sun and Moon pull at right angles. Animal activity may shift as nights grow darker after the Moon sets.
Pick any place on Airpult to see tonight's cloud cover, hourly conditions and moonrise and moonset times.
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Frequently asked questions
When is the next last quarter moon?
The next last quarter instant is listed above with upcoming dates for the rest of the year.
Is last quarter visible at night?
It is often highest before dawn. After sunrise the half Moon may still be visible in a bright blue sky if you know where to look.
How is last quarter different from first quarter?
Both are half lit, but last quarter is waning toward new moon and is usually best in the morning, while first quarter favors evening skies.