Today, February 28, 2025, marks the New Moon phase, which is associated with new beginnings and personal renewal. With the Moon currently positioned between the Earth and the Sun, it remains invisible to observers on our planet, registering at 0% visibility.
According to the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET), the New Moon officially began on February 27 at 21:44, and it will extend until March 6, 2025, when the next lunar phase, the Crescent Moon, takes over. This month has been marked by various phases of the Moon, each influencing different aspects of life.
The complete lunar calendar for February includes notable dates: the Crescent Moon will appear on March 5, the Full Moon on March 12 at 10:53, and the Waning Moon on March 20 at 14:32. These phases play pivotal roles, from guiding planting cycles to influencing tides and even affecting human moods.
The New Moon phase, often viewed as the starting point of new objectives, invites individuals to set intentions, start new projects, or instigate personal changes. This transition can also lead to greater introspection, as many people report feeling reflective during this period.
Curiously, the New Moon isn’t merely about darkness; it signifies the sun and moon aligning, leading to higher tides known as sizigious tides. This results from the combined gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun affecting the Earth’s waters.
Following the New Moon, the next phase is the Crescent Moon, characterized by the Moon illuminating from one side, much like the letter C. Observers, particularly those situated in the Southern Hemisphere, will perceive the crescent curvature distinctly, showing lighter sections of the lunar surface.
The Full Moon, occurring around mid-month, showcases the Moon fully illuminated by the Sun, providing the brightest visibility. It’s often associated with culmination, celebration, and elevated energies, where many find it easier to manifest their desires and intentions.
Subsequently, the Waning Moon phase marks the transition back to darkness, serving as a time for letting go, reflection, and closing out cycles. This period is considered significant for releasing patterns and habits no longer needed–an invitation to clear energetic space for new adventures.
Fun fact: the average distance from the Earth to the Moon is about 384,400 kilometers. This distance can range significantly due to the Moon's elliptical orbit, oscillation between perigee and apogee, affecting its visual size from Earth.
The appearance of the Moon also varies depending on one’s location. For example, people viewing the crescent phase from the Northern Hemisphere see the illuminated area on the right, whereas observers from the Southern Hemisphere view it on the left. This distinction brings forth the fascinating notion of universal observation and orientation when it relates to celestial phenomena.
Today sheds light on the importance of our lunar companion and encourages us to think about how its cycles can enrich our daily lives. Regular updates about the moon’s various phases will assist readers in maximizing the influence of these lunar shifts.