I shot Waxing HDR Gibbous Moon 65% [OC]

Waxing Gibbous Moon — 25 February 2026 🌙

The Moon was in its waxing gibbous phase, approximately 65% illuminated, progressing toward Full Moon. The low-angle sunlight along the terminator enhances crater relief and fine surface texture.

For the illuminated side, 650 frames were captured at 1/50s, f/9, ISO 100 and stacked to maximize detail and reduce noise. A single 10s exposure at ISO 160 was integrated for HDR to extend dynamic range and preserve subtle tonal transitions near the shadow boundary.

Selective color enhancement highlights mineral variation: warmer tones indicate iron-rich basaltic regions, while cooler hues correspond to titanium-rich areas.

Equipment: Nikon Z6 + TTArtisan 500mm + Nikon TC-2x (1000mm effective).