On the night of Dec. 30 to Dec. 31, a unique astronomical event known as a “black moon” will be visible over Kazakhstan. During this phenomenon, the celestial body will be entirely casted by Earth’s shadow, according to scientists from Novosibirsk State University.
Alfiya Nesterenko, head of the astrophysical automated training complex in the physics department of Novosibirsk University, explained that the moon typically transitions through four phases within a month: new moon, first quarter, full moon and third quarter.
“December this year is different from last year in that the moon will, roughly, enter a fifth phase. Specifically, there will be a second new moon on Dec. 31,” she said.
Unfortunately, the event will not be visible to the naked eye. However, with a bit of luck, one may be able to witness the flash caused by a meteorite striking the moon’s surface, which occurs approximately once per hour.
