A New Moon can appear to be a mysterious event. Where has the Moon gone, and why can we only see a tiny sliver of it – or none at all? As the Moon gradually emerges from the darkness in a crescent shape, it’s easy to see why ancient astrologers came to believe that the New Moon symbolized a new beginning – and indeed it does, being the beginning of the regular lunar cycle.

A New Moon occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, the opposite of a Full Moon. The Moon emits no light of its own, so the part of the Moon that we see illuminated in the night sky always depends on how much of the Sun’s light is reflected from its surface.

During a New Moon, the Moon light is reflected from the side of the Moon we cannot see. From Earth, the New Moon is invisible – although sometimes, a phenomenon called Earthlight (sunlight reflected from clouds) does give enough illumination for us to see a dim outline of the round Moon. The very thin crescent you may think of as a New Moon actually occurs around one day after the moment of the New Moon itself.

Astrologically speaking, the New Moon is a Sun-Moon conjunction, with the Sun and Moon very close together as viewed from Earth. It’s the blended energy from the Sun and Moon which make a New Moon such a potent astrological factor.

This New Moon is in Leo on August 4th, 2024. Astrologically, Leos are radiant, warm, fire energy – generous, creative, joyful and full of drama. It’s an energy with wow factor, and it loves attention. The more glamorous the better.

When a New Moon occurs in Leo, we have the opportunity to start afresh with laughter in our hearts and with the feel-good factor very much in evidence.

Think of Leo energy as showbiz energy and you won’t go far wrong – it can be brilliant fun and great company, but also demanding of your respect and attention, and woe betide you if you don’t pay homage.

How Will the Leo New Moon Affect Each Zodiac Sign?

The New Moon in Leo will affect each zodiac sign slightly differently, depending on the individual’s own natal chart. However, overall, we can say that each sign is encouraged to be brave and bold and to seek out what brings them joy during this new cycle.

Leo New Moon for an Aries (Aries dates: March 20 – April 19)

To heed the joyfulness of this Leo New Moon, you could do worse than to look towards your own creativity, Aries. The New Moon in your fellow fire sign inspires and motivates you and this is a terrific time for manifesting creative, artistic and spiritual goals. Let your inner artist out to play.

Leo New Moon for a Taurus (Taurus dates: April 20 – May 20)

With the New Moon in your family zone, there should be good news if you’re looking to move home, redecorate, welcome a new pet or family member or reconcile following a family squabble. Do more together of whatever makes the family laugh, and try to reconnect with relatives you haven’t seen for some time.

Leo New Moon for a Gemini (Gemini dates: May 21 – June 20)

This Leo New Moon brings out the very best in your communication skills, adding drama and flair to your words and creative energy to your ideas – outstanding news if you work in PR, marketing or the persuasive arts! It’s also a good time to hold a tricky conversation, because you can speak with honesty and warmth.

Leo New Moon for a Cancer (Cancer dates: June 21 – July 21)

The New Moon in your money zone is obviously a good time to take on new money-making ventures or side hustles, and to seek out a better deal financially on your assorted policies and cards. Don’t be afraid to try something new and to stretch your talents to their utmost.

Leo New Moon for a Leo (Leo dates: July 22 – August 21)

A New Moon in your own sign brings out every inch of your larger than life flair, and this is a fabulous time to meet someone and to fall in love. Job interviews are also well starred, as is any situation where you need to make a good first impression. Leo doing what Leo does best – keep going!

Leo New Moon for a Virgo (Virgo dates: August 22 – September 21)

This New Moon occurs in your privacy zone and reminds you that you may have had your fill of socializing recently, Virgo. However, don’t cut yourself off from the world – instead, be more discriminating and careful about who you choose for company. There’s a lot of love around you, so don’t waste your time on people you don’t really like.

Leo New Moon for a Libra (Libra dates: September 22 – October 22)

The Leo New Moon highlights your social life and this gregarious energy is perfect for meeting new people and expanding your tribe. You’re fabulous company just now and everyone wants to be by your side – so romantic relationships also get a boost, not just friendships.

Leo New Moon for a Scorpio (Scorpio dates: October 23 – November 21)

This New Moon is a very ambitious moment for you, and you’ll be keen to shout your skills from the rooftops. This is no bad thing as you’re normally a little reticent when it comes to self-promotion and self-expression. Let the world know what you can do and show that you’re ready to take on a new challenge.

Leo New Moon for a Sagittarius (Sagittarius dates: November 22 – December 20)

Adventure and excitement are key themes of this Leo New Moon and you’ll be longing to get started with a fresh view on life. This is also a good New Moon for studying, and for gaining extra qualifications. Expand your mind, expand your horizons, expand your soul.

Leo New Moon for a Capricorn (Capricorn dates: December 21 – January 18)

The warmth and joy of the Leo New Moon help to lift your spirits and to haul you out of any depressive episodes you’ve experienced recently, Capricorn. Emotionally, this New Moon can be demanding, but confronting your fears and traumas head-on will help you to eliminate them.

Leo New Moon for an Aquarius (Aquarius dates: January 19 – February 17)

The New Moon falls in your love zone, Aquarius, so it’s a very good time for a new romance, or for re-kindling the magic in an existing one. Grand gestures go down well with this Leo energy, but so do tiny thoughtful touches – don’t try to buy love, Aquarius, but show your warmth with your time instead.

Leo New Moon for a Pisces (Pisces dates: February 18 – March 19)

The Leo New Moon brings you a fresh start in your everyday routines, Pisces, so it’s a good time to re-schedule your life, improve your time management, delegate and generally sort things out. Carve out more time for yourself, Pisces, your loved ones and your hobbies by becoming more efficient at what you do.