Moon ExactlyPhase 1 of 8
New Moon Moon
The Moon lies near the Sun in our sky, so its sunlit half faces mostly away from Earth.
New Moon
Visualization uses the common Northern Hemisphere orientation. The illuminated side may appear rotated or reversed from other latitudes.
Astronomical definition
The Moon lies near the Sun in our sky, so its sunlit half faces mostly away from Earth. Phase categories are conventional ranges within a continuous change; the exact quarter and principal phases are mathematical instants.
How to observe it
The disk is normally lost in solar glare. This is the darkest observing window for faint stars and deep-sky objects.
Where it sits in the cycle
The New Moon occurs at the start of the synodic cycle. It follows the Waning Crescent and leads toward the Waxing Crescent. A complete New-Moon-to-New-Moon cycle averages 29.53 days, so broad stages last several days, but not for identical durations.
Traditional and spiritual meaning
In astrology and some spiritual traditions, the New Moon is often associated with new beginnings, quiet reflection, and setting intentions. These interpretations are matters of belief and cultural practice, not scientifically demonstrated lunar effects.
What happens next?
Illumination continues to increase as the Moon approaches the Waxing Crescent. The lit side always faces the Sun even as its orientation changes with location and viewing angle.
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions
How illuminated is a New Moon?
about 0–2%. The value changes continuously except at the exact event.
How long does the New Moon last?
Phase labels divide a roughly 29.53-day cycle. Intermediate labels usually span about 3.7 days, but orbital speed varies.
What comes after the New Moon?
The next named stage is the Waxing Crescent.