Waning Crescent Moon Phase Observed on March 15, 2026
On March 15, 2026, the Moon is in its waning crescent phase, with approximately 9.7% illumination, as it approaches the new moon on March 19.
On Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Moon is in its waning crescent phase, with approximately 9.7% of its surface illuminated. This phase occurs as the Moon approaches the new moon, which is expected on March 19 at 1:23 UTC.
During the waning crescent phase, the Moon rises in the early morning hours and sets in the afternoon. For example, in Los Angeles, California, the Moon rises at 5:15 AM and sets at 3:47 PM, providing a viewing window of about 10 hours and 32 minutes.
The next full moon, known as the Pink Moon, is scheduled to occur on April 1, 2026, at 10:12 PM EDT. This full moon is traditionally associated with the blooming of pink phlox flowers in early spring.
The Moon's phases result from its 29.5-day orbit around Earth, during which it passes through eight distinct phases, including new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. These phases are caused by the changing angles between the Earth, Moon, and Sun.