Watch the 1st half-illuminated moon of the first quarter of 2023 rise tonight
On Saturday, Jan. 28, skywatchers can see the first moon of the first quarter of the year, when the moon appears to be half-lit from Earth’s perspective.
In the United States, the moon will rise in the late morning and be visible until it sets around midnight about 13 or 14 hours later, depending on your specific location. In New York City, the moon will rise at 10:53 a.m. EST (1553 GMT) and set at 12:40 a.m. EST (0540 GMT) on January 29, according to skywatching site In-the-sky.org (opens in new tab).
While you may be able to see the moon during the sunlight hours, the best time to get a look is after the sun sets. Sunset in New York City occurs at 5:07 PM EST (1007 GMT). At that time, the moon will be 62 degrees high in the southeast sky. (Remember: your fist extended at arm’s length equals about 10 degrees in the air.)
Related: What is the moon phase today? Moon phases 2023
The first quarter phase is one of four in the lunar cycle as it orbits the Earth, which takes 29.5 days. This month we have already experienced the three other phases: a full moon on Jan 6, a last quarter on Jan 14. and a new moon on Jan 21. Lunar New Year widely celebrated all over the world.
Next up for lunar watchers is the full snowy moon on Feb. 5, but before then you’ll have a chance to see a comet. Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) is now visible in the night sky, and it will reach perigee, or closest to Earth during its orbit, on February 1.
If you’re interested in taking pictures of the moon during the first quarter, check out our guide how to photograph the moon guide to the best lunar photography tips and tricks. We also have guides for the best cameras for astrophotography and best lenses for astrophotography if you need to prepare for these or other celestial events, including the approach of comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF).
Editor’s Note: If you photograph the moon during the first quarter phase and would like to share it with Space.com readers, send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to [email protected]
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