New Moon
Astronomy: The Moon is close to the same direction as the Sun, so its illuminated side faces away from Earth.
Traditional reflection: Traditionally associated with quiet beginnings, intention-setting and choosing what to start.
See the current moon phase, illumination and moon age, then check any other date. The calculator also gives the exact next new moon and full moon times in your local timezone.
The lunar cycle lasts about 29.5 days. Astronomy describes the changing amount of the Moon's sunlit face that we see from Earth. Traditional spiritual meanings are included separately as prompts, not as scientific predictions.
Astronomy: The Moon is close to the same direction as the Sun, so its illuminated side faces away from Earth.
Traditional reflection: Traditionally associated with quiet beginnings, intention-setting and choosing what to start.
Astronomy: A growing crescent appears after the new moon as the visible illuminated portion increases.
Traditional reflection: Often used as a prompt for taking a first practical step and building early momentum.
Astronomy: About half of the Moon's visible face is illuminated while the lit portion continues to grow.
Traditional reflection: Traditionally linked with decisions, adjustment and continuing despite ordinary resistance.
Astronomy: More than half of the visible Moon is illuminated and the light is still increasing toward full moon.
Traditional reflection: A common time for reviewing progress, refining an intention and finishing what is nearly ready.
Astronomy: The Moon is opposite the Sun in Earth's sky, so nearly all of its visible face is illuminated.
Traditional reflection: Traditionally associated with culmination, attention, gratitude and releasing what is complete.
Astronomy: More than half of the Moon remains illuminated, but the visible lit portion is now decreasing.
Traditional reflection: Often used for reviewing what has happened, sharing what was learned and beginning to let go.
Astronomy: About half of the visible face is illuminated as the Moon continues toward the next new moon.
Traditional reflection: Traditionally linked with clearing, forgiveness, course correction and making room.
Astronomy: Only a narrowing crescent remains illuminated before the lunar cycle returns to new moon.
Traditional reflection: A common prompt for rest, reflection and completing the cycle before beginning again.
The calculator uses the geocentric ecliptic angle between the Sun and Moon to identify the phase, then calculates the illuminated fraction and searches forward for the next exact new and full moon. This is more precise than counting days from an old reference moon. The NASA moon phase guide explains why the Moon appears to change shape through the month.
The calculator above uses the current date and time to show today's phase, illumination and approximate moon age. It updates when you open the page, and you can choose another date without submitting any information.
It calculates the geocentric angle between the Sun and Moon with Astronomy Engine rather than estimating from an average cycle. The displayed illumination is astronomical, while the spiritual meanings are traditional reflection prompts.
The phase and moment of a new or full moon are the same global astronomical events. Your local date and time can differ by timezone, and moonrise, moonset and visibility depend on your location and weather.
Waxing means the visible illuminated portion is increasing from new moon toward full moon. Waning means it is decreasing from full moon toward the next new moon.
The live calculator shows both upcoming events with dates and times in your device's local timezone. Select another date to find the next new and full moon after that day.
No. Moon phases are astronomical events. Their ritual and spiritual meanings can be used for reflection, but they do not scientifically predict events, guarantee outcomes or replace practical evidence and professional advice.
For another daily reflection, read the free daily horoscope. To explore the Moon in your birth chart, use the free birth chart calculator. Personal ritual services are listed separately in the shop.
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