A Night to Remember: The First Quarter Moon Phase

Prepare for an extraordinary sight tonight as the first quarter moon phase reveals a gigantic 'X' and 'V' gracing the moon’s surface! Perfectly timed for skywatchers, this event occurs at 11:41 p.m. EDT on July 2, providing the perfect opportunity for lunar enthusiasts to witness this celestial phenomenon.

What Makes the Letters Appear?

As the sun beams at just the right angle, it casts fascinating shadows across the moon’s rugged terrain, creating the illusion of a massive 'X' and 'V'. This incredible occurrence is known as the 'clair-obscur' effect, where light and shadow play tricks on our eyes, forming recognizable shapes from the moon's craters.

How to Spot the Lunar Letters

To catch a glimpse of these mysterious shapes, look towards the terminator—the line dividing the moon’s day and night sides—just after sunset on July 2. The letters will be most vibrant when illuminated by the setting sun's rays.

If you miss them initially, don’t fret! They remain visible for a while even after they shift into the moon’s daylight side.

Where to Find the 'X' and 'V'

The 'X' is created by sunlight hitting the elevated rim sections of Bianchini, Purbach, and La Caille Craters, located about 25 degrees south of the lunar equator. As for the 'V', look for the shadowy outline of Ukert Crater just 10 degrees above the lunar equator.

A small telescope with a 6-inch aperture will suffice to view these lunar features, but a larger scope will enhance the intricate details of the moon’s fascinating surface.

Gear Up for the Best Moon Watching Experience!

For those aspiring to explore the wonders of the lunar surface more deeply, we'll have detailed guides on the best telescopes and binoculars in 2025. Plus, photographers aiming to capture this celestial show should check out our recommendations for the top cameras and lenses for astrophotography.

Don’t miss this chance to witness the moon’s stunning 'X' and 'V' tonight—mark your calendar and prepare for an unforgettable cosmic spectacle!