What is Black Moon? When and Where Can You Watch This Rare Celestial Event in India? Here’s What You Need to Know!

A Black Moon occurs when two new moons occur within a month, making it a rare celestial event. The last Black Moon of 2024 will occur on December 30.

During a new moon, the moon is between the Earth and the sun, making it invisible. Although the Black Moon itself is not visible, its absence causes the sky to darken, making it perfect for stargazing.

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On this night, planets like Venus and Saturn will be visible in the western sky after sunset, while Jupiter and Mars will shine in the east.

Additionally, the absence of moonlight enhances the visibility of celestial events, such as the Quadrantid meteor shower, which peaks on January 2-3, 2025. There will be two solar and two lunar eclipses in 2025, but only one lunar eclipse will be visible in India.

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What is the Black Moon and why is it special?

A black moon is a term used to describe a specific lunar phenomenon, although it is not an official astronomical term. The most common definition refers to the second new moon in a calendar month.

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This event occurs because the lunar cycle averages about 29.5 days, so a month of 30 or 31 days can have two new moons. The next Black Moon will occur on December 30, 2024.

black moon definition

• Monthly Black Moon: This is when there are two new moons in a calendar month. For example, if the first new moon occurs on the 1st of the month, the second new moon usually occurs at the end of the same month.
• Seasonal Black Moon: This refers to the third new moon in a season that contains four new moons. This condition is relatively rare, occurring approximately every 33 months.

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During a Black Moon, the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, which means its illuminated side faces away from the Earth, making it invisible to ground-based observers.

Although the Black Moon itself is not visible, its appearance creates a darker sky, increasing the visibility of stars and planets, making it an excellent time for stargazing.

Comparison with other lunar events

A black moon is often contrasted with a blue moon, which is defined as two full moons in a month. Therefore, the Blue Moon highlights the abundance of the Full Moon, while the Black Moon symbolizes the scarcity of the Full Moon.

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When to watch the Black Moon in December 2024?

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The Black Moon will occur on December 30, 2024, at 5:27 PM ET (22:27 UTC). This event marks the second new moon in December, a rare event. Here are the viewing times and locations:

Black moon time in 2024

• Americas: The Black Moon will be observed on December 30, 2024 at 5:27 PM ET.
• Europe, Africa and Asia: Will be visible on December 31, 2024 at 3:57 AM IST (India Standard Time).

visibility

The Black Moon itself is not visible because it is a new moon, which means the illuminated side of the moon is facing away from the Earth. However, the lack of moonlight will create ideal conditions for stargazing, making stars and planets more clearly visible in the night sky.

Stargazing opportunities

Dark skies during this time enhance the visibility of celestial objects. Notably, both Jupiter and Mars will appear prominently in the sky during this period.

Additionally, this timing coincides with the Quadrantid meteor shower, which will peak on January 2-3, 2025, which also provides excellent opportunities to view meteors.

Can you watch the Black Moon from India?

Yes, you can watch the Black Moon from India! The event will be held on December 30, 2024, but will be on December 31, 2024 at 3:57 AM India Standard Time.

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Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion