A rare celestial event is set to unfold on August 22–23, 2025, as the mysterious Black Moon rises—an occurrence that blends astronomy, folklore, and a touch of cosmic wonder. Stargazers, astrologers, and sky enthusiasts around the world are preparing for one of the year’s most fascinating night-sky spectacles.

The term Black Moon may sound ominous, but in reality, it refers to a rare type of new moon that holds a special place in both folklore and astronomy. Unlike a regular new moon, which happens every month, a Black Moon occurs under unique circumstances—either when there are two new moons in a single calendar month or when four new moons appear in a single season, making the third one a Black Moon. This August, the skies will deliver the latter, with the moon reaching its dark phase on August 23 at 6:06 UTC (1:06 a.m. CDT). Depending on where you live, you may experience it late on the 22nd.

The Origins of the Black Moon

While the Blue Moon is a more familiar term, the Black Moon has a more shadowy history. Folklorist Philip Hiscock traced the modern definition of Blue Moons back to a 1946 misinterpretation in Sky & Telescope magazine, later popularized throughout the 20th century. The Black Moon, however, appears to have deeper cultural roots, with some historians linking it to Wiccan traditions and lunar folklore. Astronomy enthusiasts, websites, and even pop culture have since adopted the term, cementing its place in modern stargazing vocabulary.

Interestingly, Black Moons are not an official astronomical designation but rather a blend of cultural naming and observational patterns. Some sources even suggest the phrase can also apply to months without a new moon at all—a rare alignment that creates yet another twist in the moon’s mythology.

Why You Should Care About the Black Moon

Although you won’t see the Black Moon itself—since new moons occur when the moon is directly between Earth and the Sun—its impact is felt in the night sky. With the moon completely dark, the stars and constellations appear brighter and more visible, offering a perfect opportunity for stargazing. Astrophotographers and amateur astronomers especially look forward to Black Moon nights because the lack of moonlight reveals breathtaking views of the Milky Way and fainter celestial objects.

Skywatchers planning to experience this event should head to areas with minimal light pollution. Remote fields, mountaintops, or national parks often provide the clearest skies, allowing viewers to enjoy the enhanced brilliance of the cosmos.

Fun Facts About the Black Moon

• Frequency: A monthly Black Moon occurs about once every 29 months, while a seasonal Black Moon—like the one this August—appears roughly every 33 months.
• Past and Future Events: The last seasonal Black Moon took place on May 19, 2023. After August 2025, the next will arrive on August 20, 2028.
• Other Black Moon Dates: The previous monthly Black Moon was on December 30–31, 2024, with the next one set for August 31, 2027.
• Super Black Moon Ahead: On August 20, 2028, a super Black Moon will coincide with the moon’s perigee—its closest approach to Earth—making the event even more spectacular.
• Triple Black Moon: In 2033, lunar cycles will align for three consecutive Black Moons, a rare “triple event” that has skywatchers already marking their calendars.

A Blend of Science and Myth

Though the moon won’t visibly turn black, the concept of the Black Moon has captured human imagination for centuries. Some see it as a symbol of transformation and renewal, while others view it as simply another fascinating marker in the lunar calendar. Either way, the August Black Moon provides an opportunity to step outside, look up, and reconnect with the rhythms of the universe.

So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer, a casual skywatcher, or someone drawn to the mystical symbolism of the moon, this Black Moon is an event worth witnessing. On the night of August 22–23, let the darkened sky remind you of the beauty and mystery that exists beyond our everyday view.