If you are looking up at the sky tonight and wondering what phase the Moon is in, here is the answer.
The Moon Phase on September 15, 2026
The Moon is a waxing crescent on September 15, 2026.
The September new moon occurred on September 11. Since then, the Moon has been growing — waxing — from a thin sliver toward the first quarter. On September 15, it is approximately 18–20% illuminated depending on your location.
The Moon will reach first quarter on September 19.
What Does Waxing Crescent Mean?
A waxing crescent phase means the Moon is growing brighter each night. After the new moon — when the Moon is not visible — a thin crescent appears in the western sky after sunset and grows each evening. By September 19, it will be a half-lit first quarter Moon, and it will continue growing toward a full moon after that.
Tonight, the crescent will be visible in the western sky shortly after sunset. It sets a few hours after the Sun, so look early — by mid-evening it will be low on the horizon or already below it.
When Is the Next Full Moon?
The next full moon after September 15, 2026 falls later in September — after the first quarter on September 19, the Moon continues growing to reach full. NASA’s September 2026 skywatching guide confirms the lunar sequence for the month.
What Phase Is the Moon on September 15, 2026?
The Moon is a waxing crescent on September 15, 2026. The new moon occurred on September 11, and the first quarter is on September 19. The Moon is roughly 18–20% illuminated on this date and is visible in the western sky after sunset.