LoupeLabMoon Phase in Beijing Today
Sunday, May 17, 2026 · China
New Moon
0% illuminated
Tonight’s Moon in Beijing
Best viewing at 1:30 PM facing S · 78° above horizon
The Moon & Beijing
continental climate with dust storms in spring affecting visibility
Lunar Culture in Beijing
The Ancient Observatory in Beijing, built in 1442, is one of the oldest astronomical observation sites in the world. The Temple of the Moon (Yuetan), built in 1530, was where Ming and Qing emperors performed lunar sacrifices. Beijing's Mid-Autumn Festival is one of China's most important holidays, celebrated with mooncake exchanges and family gatherings under the full moon.
How the Moon Affects Beijing
The Bohai Sea coast east of Beijing has a tidal range of 1-2 meters. The Chinese agricultural calendar, codified over millennia in Beijing as the imperial capital, integrates 24 solar terms with lunar months. This lunisolar system governs traditional planting, harvesting, and festival timing across China. Beijing's modern space program (CNSA) has conducted multiple lunar missions including the Chang'e series.
Best Moon Viewing in Beijing
Jingshan Park's hilltop (94m) behind the Forbidden City offers a panoramic southward view. The Summer Palace's Kunming Lake reflects moonlight beautifully. Avoid spring (March-May) when dust storms reduce visibility. Autumn is the clearest season.
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Upcoming Lunar Events
New Moon
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Full MoonFlower Moon
Sunday, May 31, 2026
New Moon
Monday, June 15, 2026
Full MoonStrawberry Moon
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
New Moon
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Full MoonBuck Moon
Thursday, July 30, 2026
Moonphase Watches & Beijing
Set Your Moonphase Watch in Beijing
To set your moonphase complication in Beijing: wait for the next full moon (Sunday, May 31), then advance the moonphase disc to show a full moon centered in the aperture. Set the time to 5:26 AM local time. Use our drift calculator to check if your complication has drifted since you last set it.
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