Park City stargazing peaks under November’s New Moon

Photo: Unsplash // Klemen Vrankar

PARK CITY, Utah – The New Moon in Scorpio will blend into the early morning sky on Friday, Nov. 1, marking the start of a new lunar cycle. Reaching its peak at 6:47 a.m. MT, this New Moon offers a subtle presence as it aligns with the Sun, providing a fresh beginning for those following lunar cycles.

What Is a New Moon?

A New Moon occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, usually once a month.

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, in ancient times, civilizations worldwide used the phases of the Moon to mark time, measuring their months by the lunar cycle, which repeats every 29.5 days. The new month traditionally began not at the astronomical New Moon, but when the first slim crescent reappeared in the western twilight, symbolizing a rebirth in light.

This sighting often marked the start of annual observances like Lunar New Year, Ramadan, Easter, and Rosh Hashanah. Over centuries, cultures learned to predict these lunar events with remarkable precision, enabling them to anticipate rare occurrences like total solar eclipses, which only happen during the New Moon phase.

Best Time for Stargazing

While a full moon often steals the show, its brightness outshines stars, making them difficult to see. Around the New Moon, skies are at their darkest, providing an optimal window for stargazing. The nights surrounding November’s New Moon offer perfect conditions to spot faint stars and constellations, unobscured by lunar light.

Community Observance

Locals can connect with the energy of this Scorpio New Moon at The Shop Yoga Studio on Nov. 1. This donation-based gathering at 6:30 p.m. provides a space for setting intentions and reflecting on personal goals, aligning with the ancient tradition of using the lunar cycle as a guide for transformation and new beginnings.

Visit Jordanelle Park or Rockport Reservoir for the best viewing as they are the closes certified Dark Sky Parks. For a full list of certified dark sky parks for stargazing visit the Utah Office of Tourism’s website.