At 2:06 a.m. EDT on August 23, the moon will enter its new moon phase, which happens roughly every 29.5 days. This time, however, it’s known as a “black moon.”
What’s a black moon? It’s essentially a new moon, but it’s a special one with two meanings. First, it can refer to the second new moon within a single calendar month. This happens when there’s a new moon at the beginning of the month. The next monthly black moon will appear on August 31, 2027, occurring about once every 29 months, according to Time and Date.
The second meaning of a black moon is tied to the seasons. Astronomers call a new moon a “seasonal black moon” when it’s the third new moon within a season that has four new moons. This type of black moon occurs about every 33 months. Currently, summer in the Northern Hemisphere began with the solstice on June 20 or 21 and will end with the equinox on September 22. This summer includes new moons on June 25, July 24, August 23, and September 21.
While you won’t see the black moon itself, it creates a moonless night, offering a perfect chance to gaze at the stars. The Milky Way, in particular, shines bright during this time. To get the best view, find a location away from city lights. Look for the Summer Triangle—three bright stars named Vega, Deneb, and Altair—in the southeast. The Milky Way will stretch across the sky, adding to the beauty of the night.
Interestingly, social media is buzzing about the black moon, with stargazers excitedly sharing tips and spotting locations for optimal viewing. Many enthusiasts take to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to showcase their night sky photos, creating a sense of community around these rare celestial events.
In summary, while the black moon won’t be visible, it sets the stage for stargazing. So mark your calendars and enjoy the wonders of the summer sky!
