Moon phase today: lunar calendar highlights gibbous waning phase this January 6th with exact dates

This Tuesday, January 6, 2026, Lua is in the gibbous waning phase. Essa stage occurs a few days after Lua Cheia recorded on January 3, when the lunar disk presents illumination greater than 90%, appearing almost completely illuminated in the night sky.

The lunar cycle maintains an average duration of 29.5 days. The phases result from the relative position between Sol, Terra and Lua, changing the visible portion illuminated by Sol.

Observers at Brasil record Lua rising in the early evening and remaining visible for much of the morning. The high brightness makes it easier to see with the naked eye in places with low light pollution.

• Moon Cheia: January 3 at 7:02 am
• Room Minguante: January 10th at 12:48 pm
• Moon Nova: January 18th at 4:51 pm
• Room Crescente: January 26th at 1:47 am

Complete calendar of lunar phases in January

The month of January 2026 presents four main phases of Lua. Essas changes follow the standard synodic cycle, influenced by the lunar orbit around Terra.

Lua Cheia occurred on January 3rd at 7:02 am, marking the moment of total visible illumination. Then, the waning phase begins a gradual reduction of the illuminated portion.

Characteristics of the current gibbous waning phase

In the gibbous waning phase, recorded on January 6, Lua displays more than three-quarters of its disc illuminated. Illumination progressively decreases towards the Quarto Minguante predicted for January 10th.

This configuration allows detailed observation of lunar craters and maria with simple binoculars. The right edge of Lua, in Hemisfério Sul, shows initial light reduction.

The average distance from Lua to Terra remains at around 384,400 kilometers. Variações at perigee and apogee slightly affect apparent size during the month.

Astronomical events associated with the month

January 2026 records the Quadrântidas meteor shower with a peak between January 3 and 4. Essa shower originates from ancient comet 2003 EH1 and produces up to 120 meteors per hour under ideal conditions.

The temporal proximity to Lua Cheia on January 3 reduced the visibility of the weaker meteors. Observadores in dark areas still recorded significant activity in the early morning hours.

Jupiter reaches opposition on January 10, appearing brighter and larger in the sky. The planet remains visible throughout the night in the constellation Touro.

Practical observation of the moon and visible planets

Lua in a waning gibbous phase offers favorable conditions for amateur astronomical photography. Equipamentos basics like refracting telescopes capture surface details clearly.

In the Brazilian Hemisfério Sul, the Lua appears with illumination turned to the left during the waning phase. Essa orientation differs from the view in Hemisfério Norte.

• Choose locations away from urban centers to reduce light pollution
• Use astronomy apps to identify exact lunar rising times
• Use a stable tripod when taking photos to avoid shaking
• Observe in the early evening hours for best contrast with the dark sky

Gravitational influence on ocean tides

Lunar phases have a direct impact on tides due to gravitational force. Durante periods of Lua Cheia and Lua Nova, spring tides occur with greater amplitude between high and low.

In January 2026, the proximity of Lua Cheia on January 3 intensified these variations. Regiões Brazilian coastal regions recorded more pronounced differences in sea levels.

Lunar gravity combined with solar gravity produces this effect known as spring tide. Pesquisas oceanographic agencies continuously monitor these oscillations for coastal forecasts.

The gravitational interaction maintains orbital stability of Terra. Estudos Scientists confirm that Lua is gradually moving away from the planet at around 3.8 centimeters per year.

Scientific aspects of lunar orbit

The synchronous rotation of Lua results in permanent visibility of the same face as Terra. Esse phenomenon occurs due to the equality between rotation period and lunar translation.

Precise measurements establish the lunar diameter at approximately a quarter of that of the Earth. The surface has craters formed by meteorite impacts over billions of years.

Visibility conditions in Brazilian territory

Brazilian cities with less light pollution offer better observation conditions in January. Regiões inland areas of states like Minas Gerais and Goiás have clearer skies.

Lua remains above the horizon for an extended period in this phase. Observadores in capital cities like São Paulo and Rio of Janeiro face greater challenges due to urban lighting.

Weather forecasts indicate clear nights in several regions of the country during the first week. Essas conditions favor amateur astronomical observation activities.

Historical record of lunar observations

Systematic observations of Lua date back to ancient civilizations. Registros Babylonians and Chinese have documented lunar cycles for thousands of years.

Modern space missions like Programa Apollo have collected samples of lunar soil. Análises confirm a composition rich in basalts and fine regolith.

Advanced ground-based telescopes continue to map the lunar surface in detail. Projetos international plans plan new manned missions for the current decade.

Additional Tips for Amateur Observation

Amateur astronomers use lunar filters to reduce excessive brightness in high lighting phases. Esses accessories protect vision and improve detail contrast.

Mobile apps provide interactive maps of the lunar surface in real time. Ferramentas identify major craters as Tycho and Copernicus visible in this phase.

• Join local astronomy groups for collective observing sessions
• Record sequential images to track daily light reduction
• Consult astronomical ephemerides for alignments with visible planets
• Keep equipment protected from nighttime humidity common in January

The current phase of Lua on January 6, 2026 represents a natural transition from the monthly cycle. Observações regulars contribute to the understanding of celestial phenomena accessible to everyone.

The lunar calendar serves as an accurate reference for activities that depend on nighttime conditions. Dados astronomical figures remain consistent across reliable scientific sources.

Summary of main astronomical dates

The month focuses on several phenomena that can be observed with the naked eye or with simple equipment. The combination of bright Lua and visible planets characterizes the January sky.

Jupiter maintains special prominence after its opposition. The gas planet displays sharp atmospheric streaks in medium-sized telescopes.

• January 3: Pico recent meteor shower Quadrântidas
• January 10: Oposição of Júpiter at maximum brightness
• Entire period: Alta visibility of Lua in different phases