- Lunar X and Lunar V
Sunlight catches rims at lunar first quarter to create the bright V and X shapes.
- Best viewing time in the UK
The phenomenon occurs in the late evening for British Summer Time (BST).
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–…Today: Saturday 23rd May 2026
–…Start formation: 22:45 / 10.45pm (become visible)
–…Peak visibility: 00:45 / 12.50am (fully formed as best contrast – Sunday 24th May)
–…Fade disappearing: 02:45 / 2.45am (Sunday 24th May)
–…Visible: good (late-night viewing low on the horizon).
o - The Moon repeats its cycle every 29½ days, so these effects happen every month, just on slightly different dates – see the complete full timetable for 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
o - Equipment
While sometimes visible with high-power binoculars, a telescope is recommended to see the fine detail of the crater rims forming the Lunar X and V.
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