New Moon: Meaning, Next Date & How to Use Its Energy

Learn what a new moon is, when the next one occurs, and how to harness its powerful energy for fresh starts

What is a New Moon?

A new moon is the first lunar phase that occurs when the Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun. During this phase, the Moon's illuminated side faces away from Earth, making it completely invisible to us. The sky appears dark without any visible moon.

New moons happen approximately every 29.5 days and mark the beginning of a new lunar cycle. Astronomically, this occurs when the Moon and Sun are in conjunction, sharing the same celestial longitude. This creates the perfect time for new beginnings and fresh starts.

Key New Moon Facts:

The Moon is completely dark and invisible
Occurs every 29.5 days on average
Marks the start of the lunar cycle
Best time for setting intentions and new beginnings
Opposite of the full moon phase

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New Moon

2026-02-16

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Next phase in 7.4 days

Countdown to New Moon

days until the next new moon

Date: 2026-02-16
Exact Time: 11:59 PM UTC

Understanding the New Moon

The New Moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle. During this phase, the moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from our perspective. The sky appears dark, with no visible moon, creating a perfect canvas for new beginnings.

Astronomically, a new moon occurs when the Moon and Sun are in conjunction, meaning they share the same celestial longitude. This happens approximately every 29.5 days, marking the start of a new lunar cycle.

Spiritual Meaning of the New Moon

The New Moon represents new beginnings, fresh starts, and the planting of seeds for future growth. It's a time of darkness that invites introspection, planning, and setting intentions for the cycle ahead.

Many spiritual traditions view the New Moon as a time to:

Set intentions and goals for the coming cycle
Start new projects and ventures
Plant seeds (both literal and metaphorical)
Plan and visualize your desired outcomes
Engage in deep introspection
Create vision boards and manifest your dreams

New Moon Rituals and Practices

Intention Setting

Write down your intentions for the coming lunar cycle. Be specific about what you wish to manifest and achieve. Place this list somewhere you'll see it daily, or keep it in a special place.

Vision Board Creation

Create a vision board with images, words, and symbols that represent your goals and dreams. The new moon's energy will help infuse your vision with powerful intention.

Meditation and Planning

Spend time in quiet meditation, visualizing your goals and planning the steps needed to achieve them. The darkness of the new moon provides a perfect backdrop for inner reflection.

Journaling

Write in a journal about what you wish to create in your life. Document your dreams, goals, and the feelings you want to experience. This practice helps clarify your intentions.

New Moon FAQ

When is the next new moon?

The next new moon will occur on 2026-02-16 at 11:59 PM UTC. This is approximately 16 days from now.

How often do new moons occur?

New moons occur approximately every 29.5 days. This is the length of one complete lunar cycle, also called a synodic month. There are typically 12-13 new moons per year.

Why can't you see a new moon?

During a new moon, the Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun. This means the Sun illuminates the side of the Moon facing away from Earth, while the side facing us remains in darkness. Without sunlight reflecting off the Moon's surface toward Earth, it becomes invisible to us.

What should you do during a new moon?

New moons are perfect for setting intentions, starting new projects, and planning for the future. It's an ideal time for meditation, journaling, creating vision boards, and planting seeds (both literal and metaphorical) for what you want to grow in your life. Learn more about new moon ritualsand all moon phases to understand the complete lunar cycle.

How long does a new moon last?

The exact moment of a new moon lasts just an instant, but the new moon phase (when the Moon appears completely dark) typically lasts for about 1-3 days. The energy of the new moon is considered most powerful for 3 days after the exact new moon moment.

What's the difference between a new moon and a full moon?

A new moon occurs when the Moon is between Earth and the Sun (invisible), while a full moon happens when Earth is between the Sun and Moon (fully illuminated). New moons represent new beginnings and setting intentions, while full moons represent culmination and release.