Moon Phase Calendar
Today's lunar phase and your complete monthly moon calendar
Moon Phase Calendar
Today's lunar phase and your complete monthly moon calendar
Today · Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Waxing Crescent
Moon Age
2.9 days
Illumination
10%
Cycle Day
3/29
Energy is building. Focus on your intentions and take the first steps toward your goals.
Next New Moon
13 Jul
26 days away
Next Full Moon
28 Jun
11 days away
Waxing Quarter
21 Jun
4 days away
Waning Quarter
6 Jul
19 days away
Waxing Crescent
Sun, 21 Jun · in 4 days
Waxing Gibbous
Sun, 28 Jun · in 12 days
Waning Gibbous
Mon, 6 Jul · in 19 days
Waning Crescent
Mon, 13 Jul · in 27 days
Waning Crescent
Mon, 13 Jul · in 27 days
In Vedic astrology, the Moon (Chandra) is one of the most significant celestial bodies, governing the mind, emotions, and overall well-being. The lunar cycle of approximately 29.5 days creates distinct energy phases - known as Tithis - each with specific qualities and auspiciousness.
The waxing phase (Shukla Paksha, days 1-15) is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, while the waning phase (Krishna Paksha, days 16-30) is suited for reflection, completion, and spiritual practices.
◯ New Moon (Amavasya)
Powerful time for new beginnings, intentions, and setting goals for the month ahead.
● Full Moon (Purnima)
Peak energy for manifestation, completion, releasing negativity, and spiritual practices.
◐ First Quarter
Time to take action, push forward, and overcome obstacles in your current endeavors.
◑ Last Quarter
Time for reflection, releasing old patterns, and preparing for the new cycle ahead.
Complete Guide to Moon Phases & Vedic Lunar Calendar
The Moon is the fastest-moving celestial body in astrology, completing a full cycle every 29.5 days. In Vedic astrology, the Moon (Chandra) governs the mind, emotions, and overall well-being - making the lunar cycle one of the most powerful tools for self-awareness and timing.
The 8 Moon Phases: Complete Meaning Guide
New Moon (Amavasya)
Vedic: Amavasya (Tithi 30/0)
The most powerful reset point of the lunar cycle. The sky is dark and the energy turns inward. Ideal for setting clear intentions, starting new projects, and planting metaphorical seeds. In Vedic tradition, Amavasya is sacred for ancestor worship (Pitru Tarpan) and deep meditation.
Best for: Starting new ventures, meditation, intention-setting, ancestral rituals
Waxing Crescent
Vedic: Shukla Paksha Tithis 2–7
The first visible sliver of light after the new moon. Energy builds gradually and forward momentum begins. This is the phase to take first steps, build plans, and nurture what was seeded at the new moon. Enthusiasm is high and obstacles feel manageable.
Best for: Planning, learning new skills, building relationships, initial action
First Quarter
Vedic: Ashtami (Tithi 8)
Half-lit, half-dark - a moment of decisive action. You face the first real challenges in your cycle. This is the time to push through obstacles, make clear decisions, and commit to your chosen path. Hesitation costs more than imperfect action at this phase.
Best for: Making decisions, overcoming resistance, exercising, asserting yourself
Waxing Gibbous
Vedic: Shukla Paksha Tithis 9–14
Almost full and charged with growing energy. Momentum peaks and refinement becomes key. Evaluate your progress, adjust your approach, and build on what is working. Social energy is high and collaborations are productive. Perfectionist impulses emerge strongly.
Best for: Refinement, collaboration, editing, quality improvements, networking
Full Moon (Purnima)
Vedic: Purnima (Tithi 15)
The apex of lunar energy - emotions run high, intuition peaks, and hidden things come to light. Celebrations, completions, and releasing what no longer serves you are powerfully supported. Major Hindu festivals (Holi, Guru Purnima, Sharad Purnima) fall on Purnima. Fasting on this day is considered highly purifying.
Best for: Celebrations, completing projects, rituals, releasing negativity, deep gratitude
Waning Gibbous
Vedic: Krishna Paksha Tithis 1–6
After the peak, energy begins to recede. The focus shifts to sharing wisdom, giving back, and expressing gratitude. This is an excellent phase for teaching, mentoring, and generous action. Inner reflection begins and what you have built this cycle becomes evident.
Best for: Teaching, sharing knowledge, giving to others, journaling, gratitude practices
Last Quarter
Vedic: Chaturdashi / Krishna Ashtami (Tithi 23)
The mirror image of the First Quarter - a powerful moment to consciously let go. Release grudges, forgive yourself and others, and clear mental and physical clutter. What you release here makes room for the next new moon's fresh start. Decluttering and ending old patterns is powerfully supported.
Best for: Forgiveness, decluttering, ending bad habits, releasing relationships
Waning Crescent (Balsamic)
Vedic: Krishna Paksha Tithis 9–14
The darkest and most introspective phase. The energy calls for deep rest, surrender, and quiet reflection. Do not force new beginnings here - trust the process and let the cycle complete naturally. Dreams are vivid and intuition is strong. Spiritual practices, meditation, and yoga are especially rewarding during this phase.
Best for: Rest, meditation, yoga, spiritual study, solitude, dream journaling
Shukla Paksha vs Krishna Paksha - Vedic Lunar Fortnight
The Hindu calendar divides the lunar month into two fortnights (Paksha), each containing 15 Tithis (lunar days). Understanding these cycles is fundamental to Vedic astrology and ritual timing.
Shukla Paksha (Waxing Phase)
The bright fortnight from New Moon to Full Moon (Tithis 1–15). Generally considered auspicious for new beginnings, growth, and outward action.
- Starting new businesses or ventures
- Weddings and auspicious ceremonies (especially Panchami, Saptami)
- Beginning new studies or learning
- Travel and new relationships
- Planting crops and gardens
Krishna Paksha (Waning Phase)
The dark fortnight from Full Moon to New Moon (Tithis 1–15 of Krishna). Generally suited for completion, reflection, and spiritual practices.
- Completing unfinished projects
- Ancestor rites (Pitru Karma) - especially Amavasya
- Fasting, tapas, and spiritual disciplines
- Medical procedures and detoxification
- Releasing toxic habits or relationships
Most Important Tithis in Vedic Calendar
| Tithi | Name | Phase | Significance | Associated Festival/Practice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Pratipada) | First day | Both Pakshas | New beginnings, Goddess Shakti | Start of Navratri |
| 5 (Panchami) | Fifth day | Shukla Paksha | Highly auspicious for new work | Vasant Panchami (Saraswati Puja) |
| 8 (Ashtami) | Eighth day | Both Pakshas | Durga worship, power & strength | Durgashtami, Krishna Janmashtami |
| 11 (Ekadashi) | Eleventh day | Both Pakshas | Fasting day, liberation (Moksha) | Ekadashi Vrat - major fasting day |
| 13 (Trayodashi) | Thirteenth day | Both Pakshas | Associated with Lord Shiva | Pradosh Vrat |
| 14 (Chaturdashi) | Fourteenth day | Krishna Paksha | Shiva worship, powerful day | Mahashivaratri, Narak Chaturdashi |
| 15 (Purnima) | Full Moon | End of Shukla | Most auspicious, Lord Vishnu | Holi, Guru Purnima, Buddha Purnima |
| 30 (Amavasya) | New Moon | End of Krishna | Ancestor rites, new cycles | Pitru Tarpan, Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) |
What to Do in Each Moon Phase - Practical Guide
New → Crescent
Days 0–7
- Set clear intentions and goals
- Start new projects or businesses
- Begin a new diet or exercise routine
- Plant seeds (literally and figuratively)
- Update your vision board
- Practice manifestation rituals
Quarter → Gibbous
Days 7–15
- Take decisive action on your plans
- Schedule important meetings
- Push through obstacles and resistance
- Refine and improve your work
- Build new relationships and networks
- Exercise and physical challenges
Full → Waning Gibbous
Days 15–22
- Celebrate achievements and milestones
- Release what is no longer serving you
- Share knowledge and mentor others
- Charge crystals under the full moon
- Deep emotional processing
- Forgiveness practices
Quarter → Crescent
Days 22–30
- Rest, sleep, and self-care
- Deep meditation and yoga
- Journal and reflect on the cycle
- Declutter your home and workspace
- Let go of old grudges and habits
- Prepare intentions for the new moon
How Our Moon Phase Calculator Works
Our calculator uses the astronomical Julian Date method, one of the most precise approaches to calculating lunar phases:
1. Julian Date Calculation
We convert today's Gregorian calendar date to a Julian Date (JD) - the continuous count of days since January 1, 4713 BC used by astronomers worldwide.
2. Moon Age Calculation
We compare today's JD with a known new moon reference point (January 6, 2000) and calculate the days elapsed modulo the 29.53-day synodic period.
3. Phase & Illumination
The moon age determines the phase name and emoji. Illumination is calculated using the cosine of the moon's orbital position, giving a realistic percentage of the lit disc.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moon Phases
How accurate is this moon phase calculator?
Our calculator uses the Julian Date method with a verified new moon reference point (Jan 6, 2000 at JD 2451549.259). Results are accurate to within a few hours for phase transitions - more than sufficient for astrological, gardening, and spiritual timing purposes.
What is Amavasya in Vedic astrology?
Amavasya (New Moon, Tithi 30) is one of the most sacred days in Hindu tradition. It is especially auspicious for Pitru Tarpan (ancestor worship), since the veil between the living and ancestors is considered thinnest at this time. It also marks the start of the new lunar month in the Hindu Panchang (almanac).
What is Purnima and why is it significant?
Purnima (Full Moon, Tithi 15) is the most auspicious Tithi, associated with completion, abundance, and the divine grace of Lord Vishnu. Major festivals including Holi, Guru Purnima, Buddha Purnima, Sharad Purnima, and Kartik Purnima all fall on Purnima. Fasting on Purnima is considered highly purifying and spiritually meritorious.
What is Ekadashi and why do people fast on it?
Ekadashi (the 11th Tithi of both Shukla and Krishna Paksha) occurs twice monthly and is considered the most auspicious fasting day in Vaishnavism. Fasting on Ekadashi is believed to cleanse the body, purify the mind, and earn spiritual merit. There are 24 Ekadashis in a year, each with its own name and specific benefits.
How do moon phases affect human emotions?
The full moon is associated with heightened emotions, vivid dreams, and increased sensitivity - observations noted by cultures worldwide. Some studies suggest correlation between the lunar cycle and sleep patterns. In Vedic astrology, the Moon rules the mind (Manas), so its cycle profoundly influences emotional states, intuition, and mental clarity throughout the month.
What is the difference between a synodic and sidereal month?
A synodic month (29.53 days) is the time from one new moon to the next - it is the basis for the visible phase cycle. A sidereal month (27.32 days) is the time the Moon takes to complete one orbit around Earth relative to the fixed stars. Vedic astrology uses both: the sidereal month for nakshatra (lunar mansion) transits and the synodic month for Tithi calculations.
Why is the moon sometimes called a Supermoon?
A Supermoon occurs when a full moon (or new moon) coincides with the Moon's closest approach to Earth (perigee) in its elliptical orbit, making it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than an average full moon. Astrologers consider Supermoons to carry amplified lunar energy and heightened emotional intensity.
How does the moon phase affect gardening?
Biodynamic and Vedic agriculture use moon phases for planting guidance. During the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha), sap rises in plants, making it ideal for planting above-ground crops, grafting, and harvesting fruit. During the waning moon (Krishna Paksha), energy moves into roots, making it better for root crops, pruning, and soil preparation.