New moon definition
A new moon is the first phase of the lunar cycle, which occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. This means that the side of the Moon facing the Earth is not illuminated by the Sun, making it invisible from our planet.
During a new moon, the Moon is in a straight line with the Earth and the Sun, which is known as syzygy. This alignment is also the same alignment that occurs during a solar eclipse, when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun.
Here are some key characteristics of a new moon:
- Invisibility: The Moon is not visible from Earth because the side facing our planet is not illuminated by the Sun.
- Dark side: The side of the Moon facing the Earth is sometimes referred to as the "dark side," although it's not actually dark all the time. It's just that we can't see it from Earth.
- No lunar eclipse: Since the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, there is no possibility of a lunar eclipse during a new moon.
- No moonlight: Since the Moon is not illuminated by the Sun, there is no moonlight visible from Earth.
- Preparation for growth: The new moon marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, which is often seen as a time of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings in many cultures and spiritual traditions.
The new moon phase typically lasts for about 3 days, after which the Moon begins to move away from the Sun and enters the waxing crescent phase.