January 6, 2024
The dark regions we see on the Moon were once thought to be seas by ancient astronomers. They are referred to as maria, which is Latin for seas. The dark material is solidified lava that once erupted to the surface of the Moon, filling large craters and impact basins. A waning crescent moon rises early tomorrow morning at approximately 3:30 am and can be seen best before sunrise.
The southeastern sky as it will look tomorrow morning at 5:30 am. Both the Moon and Venus are visible. The Moon exhibits a waning crescent phase. Star map created using Stellarium