Moon ExactlyPhase 4 of 8
Waxing Gibbous Moon
More than half of the visible disk is illuminated and the lit fraction continues to grow.
Waxing Gibbous
Visualization uses the common Northern Hemisphere orientation. The illuminated side may appear rotated or reversed from other latitudes.
Astronomical definition
More than half of the visible disk is illuminated and the lit fraction continues to grow. Phase categories are conventional ranges within a continuous change; the exact quarter and principal phases are mathematical instants.
How to observe it
The bright disk rises before sunset and remains visible for much of the evening, with a narrowing terminator toward the western limb.
Where it sits in the cycle
The Waxing Gibbous occurs at roughly days 8–14. It follows the First Quarter and leads toward the Full Moon. 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 Waxing Gibbous is often associated with refinement, patience, and preparation. These interpretations are matters of belief and cultural practice, not scientifically demonstrated lunar effects.
What happens next?
Illumination continues to increase as the Moon approaches the Full Moon. 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 Waxing Gibbous?
about 51–99%. The value changes continuously except at the exact event.
How long does the Waxing 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 Waxing Gibbous?
The next named stage is the Full Moon.