Moon ExactlyPhase 6 of 8
Waning Gibbous Moon
More than half remains illuminated, but the visible lit fraction decreases each day.
Waning Gibbous
Visualization uses the common Northern Hemisphere orientation. The illuminated side may appear rotated or reversed from other latitudes.
Astronomical definition
More than half remains illuminated, but the visible lit fraction decreases each day. Phase categories are conventional ranges within a continuous change; the exact quarter and principal phases are mathematical instants.
How to observe it
It rises later in the evening and is often high before dawn. The illuminated side appears on the left in the Northern Hemisphere convention.
Where it sits in the cycle
The Waning Gibbous occurs at roughly days 16–21. It follows the Full Moon and leads toward the Last Quarter. A complete New-Moon-to-New-Moon cycle averages 29.53 days, so broad stages last several days, but not for identical durations.
Traditional and spiritual meaning
In astrology and some spiritual traditions, the Waning Gibbous is often associated with gratitude, sharing, and integration. These interpretations are matters of belief and cultural practice, not scientifically demonstrated lunar effects.
What happens next?
Illumination continues to decrease as the Moon approaches the Last Quarter. The lit side always faces the Sun even as its orientation changes with location and viewing angle.
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions
How illuminated is a Waning Gibbous?
about 51–99%. The value changes continuously except at the exact event.
How long does the Waning Gibbous last?
Phase labels divide a roughly 29.53-day cycle. Intermediate labels usually span about 3.7 days, but orbital speed varies.
What comes after the Waning Gibbous?
The next named stage is the Last Quarter.