May 5, 2024
The Moon reaches perigee today which is when it is nearest to Earth’s center. When nearer to Earth, the Moon’s tidal effects are stronger leading to perigean spring tides. Perigee this month occurs two days before new moon.
When the Moon appears as a thin waning or waxing crescent phase as seen above, look for the phenomena known as ashen moon or earthshine. The portions of the Moon facing Earth that are not directly illuminated by the Sun will be dimly visible due to sunlight reflecting off Earth. Image credit: Stephen Rahn