Rare ‘Black Moon’ of 2025 coming in August: When to see it and why it’s so special

August Black Moon (Image: Canva)

A rare astronomical event will leave the night sky darker than usual later this month. On 23 August 2025, a seasonal black moon will appear, the only one of its kind this year. Astronomers say the phenomenon will not return until 2027.

What Makes a Black Moon Special
A seasonal black moon happens when four new moons occur within a single astronomical season. The fourth is given this title, making it an uncommon sight in the lunar calendar. Unlike a blue moon, which is linked to the full moon phase, a black moon appears when the Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, making it invisible to the naked eye.

The Moon orbits Earth about 12.37 times each year, which usually results in 12 new moons. Occasionally, the timing creates 13, with one season containing four. This year’s black moon comes just days after the Perseid meteor shower peak, giving stargazers a darker backdrop for celestial observation.

A Gift for Stargazers
The absence of moonlight will allow clearer views of the Milky Way, distant nebulae and star clusters. Astronomers recommend watching from remote areas, far from city lights, to enjoy the full effect. The darker conditions could also benefit those attempting long-exposure astrophotography during this period.

The next seasonal black moon will be visible on 20 August 2028, coinciding with a supermoon. A monthly black moon, when two new moons fall within the same month, will occur on 31 August 2027.

For those interested in brighter lunar events, the next blue moon will appear on 31 May 2026, with a seasonal blue moon following on 20 May 2027. Each event, astronomers say, offers a rare moment to appreciate the changing rhythms of the night sky.