Astrology Glossary

New Moon

A New Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon align in the same zodiac sign, marking the start of a new lunar cycle.

A New Moon happens when the Sun and Moon are at the same degree in the same zodiac sign — a conjunction that marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle. In the sky, the Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun, so its illuminated side faces away from us, making it appear invisible. Astrologically, this alignment represents a seed moment: a time of fresh starts, setting intentions, and planting ideas that will grow over the following weeks.

How it works

In a natal chart, a New Moon is simply a Sun-Moon conjunction. People born under a New Moon (within about 3–4 degrees of exact conjunction) are said to have a "New Moon personality" — they tend to be impulsive, pioneering, and focused on self-expression. The sign and house of the conjunction color how this energy manifests. For example, a New Moon in Aries in the 10th house might push someone to boldly launch a career project. The phase of the Moon at birth (New, Waxing, Full, Waning) is determined by the angular distance between the Sun and Moon; a New Moon is 0–45 degrees apart.

In practice

When a New Moon occurs in the current sky (a monthly event), it activates the area of life represented by the sign and house it falls in your natal chart. Astrologers often recommend using the New Moon phase for starting something new — a habit, a project, or an intention — rather than for finishing or releasing. Because the Moon is invisible, it's a time to look inward, reflect, and plan. Avoid making major decisions impulsively; instead, use the energy to clarify what you truly want.

See your current transits and upcoming New Moons on the Astraly calendar.

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Related terms

lunar-cyclespriority-p1glossarynew-moonmoon-phasesastrology-basics