☾ Moon Phases

Moon Phases: The Meaning of Each Phase

The moon moves through eight phases about every 29.5 days, and each carries its own energy and traditional meaning — from the fresh start of the new moon to the rest of the waning crescent.

Tonight's phase

Waning Crescent · 9% lit

New MoonBeginnings & intentions0% lit Waxing CrescentFirst steps & momentum1–49% & growing First Quarter MoonDecisions & action50% lit · waxing Waxing GibbousRefine & persist51–99% & growing Full MoonCulmination & release100% lit Waning GibbousGratitude & sharing99–51% & waning Last Quarter MoonRelease & forgiveness50% lit · waning Waning CrescentRest & surrender49–1% & waning

The lunar cycle, in order

The cycle runs from the dark New Moon (a reset for setting intentions), up through the waxing phases as light and momentum build to the Full Moon (the emotional peak and time of release), then down through the waning phases of gratitude, letting go, and rest before the cycle begins again. Want the live phase? See today's cosmic weather, or find your Moon sign.

Traditional and symbolic associations from lunar-astrology practice — an interest-and-belief framework, not a scientific claim. See our editorial policy.