This New Year's Eve, December 31, 2023, skywatchers across Russia will have the rare opportunity to witness the phenomenon known as the "Black Moon." This event occurs when two new moons take place within the same calendar month, marking the second new moon of December. According to experts at Novosibirsk State University, this is not merely astronomical jargon; it signifies something special for those interested in celestial wonders.
A new moon, typically familiar as the phase of the moon when it is not visible from Earth, occurs when the moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. On December 31, this alignment creates what is referred to as the "Black Moon," when the lunar body will be entirely shrouded from view.
Alfia Nesterenco, head of the Educational Astrophysics Automated Complex at Novosibirsk State University, explains the rarity of this occurrence. She states, "Usually, the moon goes through four phases each month: new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. The distinction for December this year is the occurrence of two new moons, leading to what we describe as the 'fifth phase' of the month." This phenomenon transpires roughly every 2.5 to 3 years and has historical precedents, with similar occurrences noted as far back as 1910.
Despite the excitement surrounding the event, seeing the Black Moon will be virtually impossible for the naked eye. Nesterenco emphasizes, "Even if one knows the moon's exact position, it remains undetectable without optical aid. There’s only one rare chance to glimpse the dark side of the moon during moments when meteorites strike its surface, which happens about once per hour. Capturing such moments requires significant patience, access to telescopes, and constantly recording the area where the moon orbits."
This insight touches on the challenges of observing such astronomical events. Vladimir Moiseev from the Khabarovsk Astronomy Club notes the difficulties, stating, "At new moons, the moon appears close to the Sun's position, making it nearly impossible to see, even through powerful telescopes. The only way to possibly observe the moon is during total solar eclipses or, with great skill, to pinpoint its position against the sun—a demanding feat for any skywatcher."
Moiseev adds, “'Black Moon' is not strictly an astronomical term; it refers to the phenomenon where the new moon occurs twice within the same month instead of the standard twelve occurrences. This extraordinary alignment of celestial bodies creates quite the educational opportunity for enthusiasts and casual observers alike.”
Notably, the double new moon this December has led to renewed interest among the public. The last instances of this exceptional alignment happened sporadically throughout history, including years like 1929, 1967, and 1986. It’s undeniable—such rare events spark curiosity and excitement, fanning the flames of interest toward astronomy and planetary phenomena.
For avid observers and those simply intrigued by the night sky, the Black Moon offers educational perspectives on our celestial neighbor's cyclical behavior. Nesterenco concluded with hope and encouragement: “Despite the odds, those interested should seize every chance to learn about these astronomical occurrences. They not only broaden our view of the cosmos but also deepen our appreciation of the universe.”
So, as the clock ticks toward midnight on December 31, reports suggest gathering under the vast Russian sky could still be rewarding—whether or not the moon reveals itself, the promise of unusual celestial stories awaits those who look up.
