While you've likely heard about a "blue moon," another term is making international headlines that might have you doing a double-take.
To kick off 2022, many provinces and states in North America were privy to what is known as a "black moon." In fact, one black moon already took place in Vancouver with a second and third on the way in February and March, respectively.
What is a black moon?
Before you get too excited: the moon does not change colour and it isn't a type of eclipse. Instead, it's a rather uncommon title used to describe a few interesting phenomena.
Marley Leacock, an astronomer at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, tells Vancouver Is Awesome the lunar name is more popular in astrology rather than in astronomy.
There are about three different definitions of a black moon:
- the second new moon in the same month
- the third new moon during a season where there are four new moons
- and when there is no new moon during the month of February
Three black moons in a row to kick-off 2022 in B.C.
Due to the time zone Vancouver is located in, there was a second new moon in January on Jan. 31 (the first new moon was on Jan. 2). As a result, the second new moon on Jan. 31 was considered a "black moon."
Canadians living on the other side of the country didn't have a "black moon" in February since the new moon took place on Feb. 1, noted Leacock.
And since there is no new moon in B.C. in February, it qualifies as a "black moon" month.
"Interestingly, February is the only month that can lack a new moon because the number of days is less than the time it takes the Moon to complete the cycle of its phases (29.5 days)," the astronomer explained.
The next new moon takes place on Mar. 2 in B.C. and then again on Mar. 31.
"Again, this happens for us due to our time zone," Leacock noted. "Those on the east coast will have this new moon early in the morning on Apr. 1."
Locals looking to do some moon-bathing will have to wait until just after Valentine's Day.
The full "snow moon" will dazzle Metro Vancouver skies with its silvery light on Feb. 16 this year.
Why is it called the full "snow moon"? Find out more information about the February full moon online.
