Rare 'black moon' that's been linked to apocalyptic prophecies is set to appear this week
A rare 'black moon' is set to appear this weekend in what is considered a rare astronomical event.
The appearance of the 'black moon' occurs only every few years and is certainly a seismic event for space geeks among us - oh, and the 'hostile' object hurtling towards us.
While it isn't like a full moon, a 'black moon' is when a new moon passes between the Earth and the sun, with the side facing us staying in shadow.
As all of this is going on, our moon remains dark, making for a rather cool phenomenon. It is on Saturday (August 23) that the rare event takes place, with the moon officially passing through its new moon phase at 11:06pm PDT.
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The 'moon' is expected to peak this Friday (August 22) at midnight ET in the Western Hemisphere, while others will follow on Saturday.
You won't be able to see anything weird during this time, though that hasn't stopped people on the internet from speculating as to what it could mean for us.
Those aware of the biblical prophecy regarding a 'dark moon' have cited Mark 13:24 as a point of interest. It reads: "The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light."
This refers to several passages that indicate the End of Time occurs during a dark moon.
One person suggested on Twitter that we should 'perhaps prepare just in case', which has seemingly added to the worry.
However, astronomers have commented on the 'black moon' and the fact that it really shouldn't be a cause for concern.
After all, the name 'black moon' isn't even the scientific term for it, but rather just a nickname.
Speaking to MailOnline, associate teaching professor of physics at Syracuse University, Walter Freeman said: "A black moon is just a second new moon that happens in one calendar month.
"If a new moon occurs near the beginning of the month, the next one can happen before it's over. From a scientific perspective, this is no different than any other new moon."
While they may not be anything spectacular to see from the sky this weekend, Freeman said the absence of moonlight will only enhance the look of stars and planets, much to the delight of stargazers.
"The lack of moonlight makes for perfect stargazing conditions," the professor added. "It's an excellent opportunity for amateur astronomers or anyone curious about the night sky to get a clearer view of stars and planets that are usually washed out by the moon."
This occurrence only happens every 33 months, with the next expected to be on August 20, 2028.
Callum Jones