On 23 August 2025, the whole world including India is going to see a rare astronomical event. On this day there will be a Black Moon event in the sky. This event is so rare that the next time it will be seen in 2027.
What is Black Moon?
Black Moon is an astronomical term used in special situations. It is not an official astronomical term. But this term is very popular among astronomy lovers.
Black Moon can happen in two ways. First when two new moons come in a month. Second when four new moons come in a season. The event of August 2025 will be called Seasonal Black Moon.
Seasonal Black Moon means that four new moons will come in the summer season. Usually only three new moons come in every season. But sometimes the fourth moon also comes.
When and how will this event be seen?
This event will happen on 23 August 2025 at 11:36 am IST. This event will happen at 06:06 GMT according to world time.
On this day the moon will be located in Leo. The moon will be only one degree north of the sun. This situation is considered very rare.
The summer season began with the new moon of June 25. After this, new moons will come on 23 July, 23 August and 21 September. Since four new moons are coming in a season, the third moon will be called Black Moon.
How rare is this event?
The seasonal black moon only occurs once every 33 months. It is a very rare phenomenon. The last seasonal black moon occurred on May 19, 2023.
The second type of black moon, which is a new moon twice a month, will next occur on August 31, 2027. It is also very rare.
The moon orbits the Earth about 12.37 times every year. Usually there are 12 new moons in a year. But sometimes there are 13 as well.
What will be seen on this day?
The most interesting thing about the Black Moon is that it will not be visible. At the time of the new moon, the moon is between the Earth and the Sun. Its illuminated side is away from the Earth.
The moon rises with the sun and sets with the sun. Therefore it is impossible to see it with the naked eye.
But on August 24 and 25, a thin moon will be visible. Look in the west direction 30-40 minutes after sunset. A thin silvery line will be visible. This will mark the return of the moon.
Golden opportunity for stargazers
Although the Black Moon will not be visible, it is a golden opportunity for stargazers. The sky will be very dark due to the absence of moonlight.
Distant stars, constellations and galaxies will be clearly visible in this darkness. The dense part of the Milky Way Galaxy will also be clearly visible.
This time is also great for astrophotography. This will be the ideal condition for taking long exposure pictures. It would be better to go away from city lights and watch.
The Perseid Meteor Shower peaked in mid-August. The dark sky due to the Black Moon will still allow better viewing.
Where to watch in India?
This phenomenon can be seen from all parts of India. But there may be trouble in urban areas due to light pollution.
Go away from the city for a better experience. Hilly areas or open fields would be ideal. Desert areas of Rajasthan are also great.
Use binoculars or a telescope. Even without equipment, a lot will be visible in the sky. It is important to be patient.
Other upcoming events
The next seasonal Black Moon will be on August 20, 2028. It will coincide with the Supermoon. This will be even rarer.
The monthly Black Moon will be in August 2027. The next Blue Moon will come on May 31, 2026. The seasonal Blue Moon will be on May 20, 2027.
Scientific significance
Black Moon has no physical effect. It is only the name of the moon's state. There is no mystical power or effect.
But this phenomenon helps to understand astronomy. One gets a chance to understand the relationship between the moon and the earth. One gets an opportunity to see the activities of the solar system.
Cultural and spiritual beliefs
Black Moon has special significance in many cultures. In Pagan and Wicca traditions it is considered a time of purification and renewal.
In astrology it is described as a time of contemplation and new resolution. Many people consider it an opportunity for spiritual growth.