The Moon rises generally in the eastern half of the horizon, similar to the Sun, due to Earth's eastward rotation. However, the exact direction can vary between east-northeast and east-southeast depending on the lunar phase, time of year, and the observer's location
- Around the time of a full moon, the Moon rises close to due east and sets close to due west, especially near the equinoxes
- The Moon's rising position shifts north or south along the horizon over an 18.6-year cycle known as lunar standstills, causing variation in moonrise direction between northeast and southeast
- The Moon rises about 30 to 70 minutes later each day, so its rising time and position change nightly
In summary, the Moon rises in the east but not always exactly due east; its precise rising point along the eastern horizon depends on the lunar phase, season, and geographic location of the observer
