To determine the direction of the Moon from your location, you need to know your specific geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) and the current time. The Moon's position changes continuously as it orbits Earth. Here are some general ways to find the Moon's direction:
- Online tools like TheSkyLive or MoonCalc allow you to input your location and time to get the Moon's azimuth (compass direction) and altitude (angle above the horizon)
- For example, at Greenwich, UK, the Moon might be seen in the East at about 15° above the horizon at a given time
- In Washington, D.C., the Moon could be located toward the West at about 262° azimuth during the first quarter phase
- If you want a natural method, the crescent Moon's horns can help approximate direction: draw an imaginary line connecting the crescent's tips and extend it down to the horizon. In northern latitudes, this line roughly points south, helping you orient yourself
Since the Moon's position depends heavily on your exact location and time, you can use an online Moon position calculator or app by entering your location to get the precise current direction of the Moon from you.
