On October 19, 2026, the Moon is in the waxing phase and has 62% visibility. According to data from the National Meteorological Institute (Inmet), a full calendar of lunar phases for this month is available.
The lunar phases in October 2026 began on the 3rd with a waning Moon at 10:26 Brazilian time. Then, the New Moon occurred on the 10th at 12:50. The Waxing Moon appeared on the 18th at 13:13, and the Full Moon is scheduled for the 26th at 1:13.
A lunation, or lunar cycle, is the period between new moons and has an average duration of 29.5 days. During this period, the Moon goes through four main phases: new, waxing, full, and waning, with each phase lasting approximately seven days.
There are also so-called 'intermediate phases': the waxing quarter and waxing gibbous, which are observed between the new and full Moons; as well as the waning gibbous and waning quarter between the full and waning Moons.
Description of Main Phases
During the New Moon, the satellite is located between the Earth and the Sun. This results in the illuminated side of the Moon facing the Sun, and the dark side facing us. Because of this, the Moon is not visible in the night sky. This phase marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle and is associated with rebirth and new opportunities.
Following the New Moon is the Waxing Moon phase. Gradually, a small illuminated strip begins to appear in the sky, which increases every night. Initially, only a thin ray of light is visible, but as the days pass, the illuminated part grows until half of the Moon becomes visible—this is called the Waxing Quarter. This phase symbolizes growth, development, and forging new paths.
During the Full Moon phase, the Earth is located between the Sun and the Moon. This allows the side of the Moon facing us to receive full light, making it completely visible and bright in the sky. This is a period of maximum light intensity, when the Moon rises exactly at sunset. The Full Moon is associated with completeness, the culmination of processes, and peak energy.
After the Full Moon, the Moon's light gradually begins to fade. Each night, we see less and less illuminated surface. When only half is visible, the Waning Quarter occurs, which is the opposite of the Waxing Quarter. The Moon continues to lose brightness until it reaches the New Moon again, restarting the cycle. The waning phase symbolizes reflection, completion, and preparation for new beginnings.
Currently, the Moon is in the waxing phase.
