A Rare “Black Moon” To Round Off 2024: What’s In The Sky On 30-31 December

As 2024 comes to a close, stargazers are in for a rare treat. On  30-31 December, we’ll witness a Black Moon, a unique astronomical phenomenon that brings a dark, moonless sky — perfect for stargazing. While it isn’t visible itself, as the new moon is positioned between Earth and the sun, it sets the stage for optimal viewing of distant stars, especially in locations away from city lights.

What’s Exactly Is A Black Moon?

You may have heard of a “Blue Moon” (the second full moon in a month), but a Black Moon is something a bit different. It happens when there are two new moons in the same month. So, this term refers to the second new moon of the month, according to EarthSky.

So, Is It Really “Black”?

While the name “Blue Moon” can be misleading (the moon doesn’t actually turn blue), “Black Moon” is much more accurate. During a new moon, the moon’s dark side faces Earth, making it totally invisible to us. So, while the moon won’t be visible in the sky, its name fits perfectly since the moon is literally absent from view!

When & How To See The Black Moon?

The new moon, or the Black Moon, will occur on 30 December 2024 at 4:26 p.m. CST (22:26 UTC). For those in the Americas, this means it happens on 30 December, while people in Europe, Africa, and Asia will experience it on 31 December.

A Sky Full Of Planets, Stars, And Meteors

If you head out on the night of 30-31 December, you’re in for a treat. Here’s what to look for:

Planets

• Venus (the brightest planet, low on the western horizon)
• Saturn (golden, just above Venus)
• Jupiter (turn east to find it)
• Mars (rising later with a red glow)

Stars

The Winter Circle, made of stars from six constellations: Rigel (Orion), Aldebaran (Taurus), Capella (Auriga), Pollux and Castor (Gemini), Procyon (Canis Minor), and Sirius (Canis Major). Jupiter and Mars will join this stellar formation on the Black Moon night.

Meteors

The Quadrantid meteor shower peaks around 2-3 January 2025, best seen from the Northern Hemisphere.

A Rare Celestial Occurance

Black Moons are rare, but there are two types of them. The first is the second new moon in a calendar month, like the one on 30-31 December. The second type is the seasonal Black Moon, which occurs when four new moons are in a season.

Monthly Black Moons happen roughly once every 29 months, while seasonal Black Moons are even rarer, occurring every 33 months.