Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat tonight as the rare ‘black moon’ makes its appearance in the night sky. This phenomenon occurs when there are two new moons in a single calendar month, with the second new moon being referred to as the ‘black moon’.
The term ‘black moon’ may sound ominous, but it’s simply a colloquialism used to describe this rare lunar event. It’s not actually black in color, but rather invisible from Earth because the side of the moon facing our planet isn’t illuminated by the sun.
The ‘black moon’ is relatively rare because the lunar cycle and calendar months don’t perfectly align. It takes the moon approximately 29.5 days to complete one orbit around the Earth, which is shorter than the average calendar month. As a result, about every 2.7 years, an extra new moon appears, making it a ‘black moon’.
This rare event is a great opportunity for astronomers and space enthusiasts to observe the night sky and take note of the moon’s position and phases. Although the ‘black moon’ itself won’t be visible, the absence of moonlight will provide a darker sky, allowing for better stargazing and views of other celestial objects.
The ‘black moon’ of December 30 is a unique event that won’t occur again until 2027, making tonight’s occurrence all the more special. So, grab a pair of binoculars, head outside, and take in the beauty of the night sky, even if the ‘black moon’ itself remains invisible.
When and Where to See the ‘Black Moon’
- Date: December 30
- Time: Late evening to early morning
- Location: Visible from anywhere in the world, although the best views will be in areas with minimal light pollution
Tips for Viewing the ‘Black Moon’
- Find a dark location with minimal light pollution for the best stargazing experience.
- Use binoculars or a telescope to observe other celestial objects in the night sky.
- Take note of the moon’s position and phases in the coming days to appreciate the uniqueness of the ‘black moon’ event.
