Skywatchers will have the chance to end the year with a rare astronomical event known as the “black moon.” The fascinating-sounding term is often used to describe the second new moon to appear in one calendar month. It is an event that is not officially recognized in astronomy, but has gained popularity over the years among amateur astronomers and stargazers.
According to the US Naval Observatory, this unique phenomenon will occur on December 30 at 5:27 PM ET (2227 GMT). For those in America, the black moon itself will be visible on December 30, while for those in Europe, Africa and Asia it will occur on December 31, 2024. In India, the black moon phenomenon can be seen around 3:57 am. on December 31.
How does a black moon form?
A new moon occurs when the sun and moon share the same celestial length and the illuminated side of the latter faces away from Earth, making it invisible to the naked eye. Since the lunar cycle lasts an average of 29.5 days, a month can sometimes have two new moons, leading to the phenomenon of a black moon. It is similar to a blue moon: a phenomenon in which two full moons appear in one month. It is notable that the moon is not visible during this phase unless a solar eclipse occurs.
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What can you expect?
Although the black moon itself will not be visible, its impact on the night sky is significant. The darkness provides better visibility of stars, planets and even distant galaxies. Binoculars or a telescope can improve viewing of planets like Jupiter, which will be visible all night, and Venus, which will be bright in the evening sky.
For those living in the Northern Hemisphere, the constellations Orion, Taurus and Leo will be prominent in the night sky. Additionally, Orion’s belt will be an excellent guide, with Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky, shining in the south.
Meanwhile, in the southern hemisphere, the Southern Cross (Crux) will be visible, along with Canopus, a highlight in the constellation Carina.