Waning Crescent
Illumination: 49-1%|Phase angle: ~315°
Only a thin sliver of the Moon remains visible on the left side (Northern Hemisphere). This is the final phase before the new moon. The Moon is visible in the eastern sky just before sunrise. As the illumination decreases toward zero, the cycle prepares to begin again.
Orbital Geometry
Only a thin sliver of the Moon's near side remains illuminated on the left (Northern Hemisphere). The Moon is approaching conjunction with the Sun, completing the synodic cycle.
Visibility & Observation
Visible in the eastern sky just before sunrise, often called the 'old moon.' Earthshine is again visible on the dark portion. The Moon rises shortly before the Sun.
Tidal Effects
Tidal range increases as the Moon approaches alignment with the Sun, building toward the next new moon's spring tides.