Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on February 22
Mashable
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Today, February 22, 2025, the Moon is in its Waxing Crescent phase, with 26% of its surface illuminated by the Sun. This phase offers a great opportunity to observe the lunar surface, as features like Mare Crisium and Fecunditatis are visible to the naked eye. For those with binoculars or a telescope, spots such as the Endymion Crater and the Apollo 17 landing site come into view.天文 enthusiasts can also take advantage of this phase to explore more details of the Moon's surface.
The Moon completes its cycle around Earth in about 29.5 days, passing through eight distinct phases. These phases are determined by how sunlight reflects off the Moon's surface as it orbits Earth. Starting with the New Moon, when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun, it becomes invisible to us. As it moves into the Waxing Crescent phase, a small sliver of light appears on its right side in the Northern Hemisphere. This gradually increases until the Full Moon, where the entire face of the Moon is illuminated.
After reaching full brightness, the Moon begins to wane, with less of its surface lit each night. This leads to phases like Waning Gibbous and eventually the Third Quarter phase, where only half of the Moon's left side is visible. The cycle concludes with the Waning Crescent phase before repeating once again.
For tech enthusiasts, understanding moon phases can enhance stargazing experiences through technology. Apps and tools that track lunar cycles help users plan observations or photography sessions. Additionally, advancements in imaging technology allow for detailed exploration of the Moon's surface features, making it easier to study and appreciate its beauty.
The Moon's phases not only impact celestial events but also influence Earth's tides and wildlife behavior. For those interested in tech and astronomy, this knowledge can inspire innovation in areas like space exploration or environmental monitoring. Observing the Moon today offers a chance to connect with nature while indulging in the wonders of space.
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/22/2026