Moon Today: Waxing Phase at 99% on August 27, 2026
Listen to the story
On Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Moon is showing a special phase in the night sky. It is in a waxing gibbous phase.
A waxing gibbous phase means the Moon is more than half full but not yet completely full. Today, it is 99% illuminated.
The Moon moves through different lunar phases every month. These phases happen because of the way sunlight hits the Moon as it moves around Earth.
Today is special because there is also a partial eclipse visible. A partial eclipse happens when only part of the Moon passes into Earth's shadow.
During an eclipse, the Moon can look darker or even slightly red in some areas. This happens because Earth blocks some of the sunlight that normally reaches the Moon.
People who want to watch the eclipse should look at the sky after sunset, when it becomes dark. A clear sky will give the best view.
Astronomy fans often use this kind of event to take photos or watch through telescopes. A telescope helps people see small details on the Moon's surface.
Even without special equipment, people can enjoy watching the Moon with just their eyes. Many communities also organize public events to observe the sky together.
The next full moon will follow soon after this near-full phase, continuing the Moon's natural monthly cycle.
Vocabulary5 words
- waxing gibbous
- a Moon phase that is more than half full and getting bigger
- illuminated
- lit up by light
- lunar phases
- the different shapes of the Moon we see over time
- partial eclipse
- when only part of something goes into shadow
- telescopes
- tools that help us see far away objects better
Quiz
Answer key
1. Waxing gibbous 2. Part of the Moon passing into Earth's shadow 3. True
Fill-in-the-blank listening
Play the audio again and fill in the missing words as you listen.
On Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Moon is showing a special phase in the night sky. It is in a _____ phase.
A waxing gibbous phase means the Moon is more than half full but not yet completely full. Today, it is _____ illuminated.
The Moon moves through different _____ every month.
Today is special because there is also a _____ visible.
A partial eclipse happens when only part of the Moon passes into Earth's _____.
During an eclipse, the Moon can look darker or even slightly _____ in some areas.
People who want to watch the eclipse should look at the sky after _____.
Astronomy fans often use this kind of event to take photos or watch through _____.
The next _____ will follow soon after this near-full phase.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever watched a Moon eclipse? What was it like?
- Why do you think people are interested in watching lunar phases?
- Do you prefer watching the sky with your eyes or with a telescope? Why?
- What other natural events do people like to observe at night?