The buzz right now centers on an event (or non-event, depending on how you think of it) happening Aug. 23. When an astronomical season, which is about three months long, includes four "new moons" rather than three, the third one is sometimes called a Black Moon. This happens about once every 33 months.

A rare black moon darkens the sky on Aug. 23, 2025, followed by a close encounter between the young crescent and Mars just days later.

A rare Black Moon is about to pass through the night sky. Here's what to know about "seeing" this unique point in the moon's lunar cycle.