What is a Black Moon?
When people hear the term Black Moon, the first thought is often that the Moon will turn black. In reality, the Moon’s color does not change at all. The name Black Moon comes from folklore and traditions rather than astronomy.
A Black Moon occurs when two new moons (Amavasya) fall within the same calendar month. Just as the fourth full moon in a season is called a Blue Moon, the second new moon in a month is known as a Black Moon.
On a new moon day, the illuminated side of the Moon faces away from the Earth, while the dark side faces toward us. This makes the Moon invisible in the night sky. Similarly, during a Black Moon, the Moon also remains unseen.
When Will Black Moon 2025 Occur?In 2025, the Black Moon will take place on 22 or 23 August, depending on the time zone.
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Eastern Time (US): 22 August, 2:06 AM
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GMT (Universal Time): 22 August, 06:06 AM
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Indian Standard Time (IST): 22 August, 11:36 AM
At that time, the Moon will be in the Leo zodiac sign, positioned just one degree north of the Sun. Although the Black Moon itself will not be visible, stargazers will be treated to a special sight shortly after.
On 24 and 25 August, about 30–40 minutes after sunset, a thin crescent moon will appear in the western sky. This delicate silver arc will be a mesmerizing view for sky watchers.
How Rare is the Black Moon?-
Monthly Black Moon: Occurs once every 29 months (when two new moons fall in a single month).
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Seasonal Black Moon: Occurs once every 33 months (when a season has four new moons, the third is called a Black Moon).
The last seasonal Black Moon appeared on 19 May 2023. In 2025, the upcoming Black Moon falls on 22–23 August.
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The next Black Moon will occur on 31 August 2027 (monthly).
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Another will appear on 20 August 2028 (seasonal).
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Interestingly, in 2033, there will be three Black Moons in a single year — on 30 January, 30 March, and none in February.
✅ Date: 22–23 August 2025
✅ Not Visible: The Moon won’t be visible during this phase
✅ Special Viewing: A thin crescent Moon on 24–25 August after sunset
✅ Rarity: Happens once every 29–33 months
So, while you won’t be able to see the Black Moon itself, the days following it will gift the night sky with a spectacular crescent — a must-watch for sky enthusiasts.
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