The crescent Moon is an important part of some religious observances today, and was for many cultures of antiquity. The theoretical limit of a visible crescent is approximately 12 - 14 hours under perfect conditions, before or after a New Moon. A waxing crescent is seen at dusk in the western sky, while a waning crescent is seen at dawn in the eastern sky - how close can you come?
Warning: While binoculars can help to spot a slim crescent Moon, it is very dangerous to use them near the Sun. Binoculars are not recommended if the Sun is above the horizon.
Required: During the course of your observing program, identify and note teh waxing or waning crescent Moon and document your best sighting with the unaided eye.
| Date & Time | Time of New Moon (UT) | Age in Hours | Location |
| February 28, 2025 @ 6:30 PM ADT |
0:45 UT | 21 hr 15 min | Swiss Air Monument |
Notes:
We were at teh Swiss Air Monument to observe the alignment of Venus, Mercury, the young Moon and Saturn. Due to cloud cover low on the horizon, Saturn could not be seen; it may even have set. Cold wind. Had to stand behind the monuments to keep my 10x42 IS binoculars steady.
Sunset: 6:03 PM AST. Moonset: 7:03 PM AST