A bright, 89%-lit Moon is already rising before sunset and is heading toward full phase.

What to see

• The Moon: Look east after its 5:34 PM Eastern rise. By sunset at 6:58 PM, it is already up and easy to find. The waxing gibbous phase means most of the lunar face is lit.
• Moonlight: Let the bright Moon be your guide for a relaxed early-evening look. It is a simple, no-equipment target for the whole family, even from a yard with some nearby lights.
• Keep watching: The Moon reaches its next full phase on September 26, so tonight gives you a nearly round preview.

Bonus: The Southern Taurids are active, with a possible rate of about five meteors per hour. Their October 10 peak is still weeks away, so expect a quiet background sprinkle rather than a meteor storm.

Moon note: Waxing gibbous, 89% illuminated, moonrise around 5:34 PM Eastern.

Step outside around sunset, give your eyes a few minutes, and enjoy the Moon’s slow climb. For more warm, easy skywatching ideas, join the NOOMMED newsletter.