The Conditions to View the Moon

When and How to View the New Moon

1. A new moon can only be seen in the western sky, after the sun has set.
2. The moon follows the trajectory of the sun and sets in the same location in the sky.
3. The younger the moon, the shorter the time period between sunset and moon set. Typically, a moon less than a day old, will only be in this state for a few short minutes.
4. As the moon ages (in days), the time period between sunset and moon set increases.

Conditions and Requirements to see the New Moon

1. A new moon is difficult to observe and prospects of success are greatly aided by the lessening of atmospheric impediments. As such the viewing location should ideally be away from the ocean, city lights and pollution.
2. A location with clear weather is required.
3. A high vantage point permits the observer a better view of the horizon.
4. A moon younger than 24 hours will not be seen with the naked eye and as such, a telescope must be used.

With the above in mind, a rural inland location is much better suited for astronomical sighting than a coastal location.

Who Can View the New Moon

The sighting of a new moon is usually a difficult commission. If you find the physical sighting an easy task, then you are probably a day late. As such, the individual tasked with viewing the new moon should be qualified and experienced. This means he should have some knowledge about where to locate the new moon and have some experience at sighting it. The sighting of a new moon may be unsafe if not performed correctly and the crescent is only visible for a short time before it sets.