On December 31, 2024, stargazers will be treated to both celestial beauty and mystery as they experience the rare occurrence known as the 'Black Moon.' This event marks the second new moon within the same month, aligning perfectly with New Year's celebrations. According to astrophysicist Alphia Nesterенко from Novosibirsk State University, the Black Moon signifies the moment when the moon, facing Earth with its unilluminated side, becomes nearly invisible.
The phenomenon occurs three to four times per century, making this New Year's Eve particularly special. The specific timing for the event is set for 3:29 AM local time, yet visibility will remain low, as Nesterенко explains. “Observing the new moon is almost impossible, even with telescopes, because the dark side will be facing us,” she said.
For those hoping to catch even a glimpse of the moon, the conditions are tricky. Unless there happens to be a meteor strike on the moon, which could momentarily illuminate its outline, stargazers will likely be left wanting. Such meteor impacts occur approximately once every hour. Nesterенко suggests, “With patience, telescopes, and cameras, one might capture the fleeting moment when the moon is illuminated, but the chances are slim.”
Aside from the Black Moon, December 31 will offer other celestial delights. The constellation Orion will shine brightly, complemented by the presence of Jupiter, the second-brightest planet visible, and Mars, which pops out with its characteristic reddish hue. “These celestial bodies form vibrant markers against the night sky, especially during gatherings out of city lights,” said Nesterенко.
Visitors to more rural areas will undoubtedly enjoy richer views of the starlit sky. “New Year's Eve is the perfect time to scout for more than just the black moon; we expect the visibility of the stars to be excellent,” remarked leading engineer Mikhail Maslov.
Jupiter's location above Orion and the reddish glimmer of Mars will become clear as the evening progresses, shortly after the day fades away. Jupiter's peak visibility usually falls around 10 to 11 PM when it is positioned high enough for ideal viewing. During this time, Mars will be sighted slightly eastward, adding to the excitement of the night.
Another unique happening will take place shortly after New Year’s. The first meteor shower of the year, Quadrantids, will peak during the night from January 3 to 4, 2025. Skywatchers can expect to witness between 45 and 200 meteors per hour during the height of the shower. “This is best viewed after midnight when the meteors rise higher, making them more apparent,” Maslov explained.
Contributing to the January celestial display, the near-sun comet C/2024 G3 ATLAS promises to shine brightly between January 10 and 15. The comet, expected to reach maximum brightness, will be best observed using binoculars or telescopes on January 12 and 13, ideally viewed during the early mornings or late evenings.
The rarity of such events highlights why the upcoming astronomical occurrences are so intriguing. “Astronomy becomes exhilarating with the combination of the Black Moon, Jupiter, Mars, the Quadrantids, and the approach of the ATLAS comet—all within this very short period,” Nesterенко noted.
Those wishing to capture the full experience should venture beyond city limits where light pollution is minimal. “Moving 50 to 100 km away from populated areas significantly enhances visibility, allowing amateur astronomers to enjoy the expansive universe overhead,” Maslov advised.
Participants should prepare adequately; bringing binoculars, telescopes or even homemade ones, alongside warm clothing and drinks, is recommended. “The excitement of the New Year should include not just celebration, but also the joy of witnessing the cosmos,” Nesterensko added.
This New Year’s Eve is shaping up to be one to lust after for sky enthusiasts. With the promise of both the Black Moon and dazzling planetary formations, there’s no shortage of celestial wonders to forecast. So, if you're lucky enough to be under the stars this New Year’s Eve, don't forget to keep your eyes on the sky—you never know what you might see!
