What's happened
On June 11, 2025, the Strawberry Moon captivated stargazers during a rare major lunar standstill, making it appear unusually low in the sky. This event, which occurs every 18.6 years, coincided with the full moon, offering a unique visual experience not expected again until 2043.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of the Strawberry Moon
- The Strawberry Moon is not actually pink; its name reflects the strawberry harvest season.
- This year's moon appeared larger and slightly tinted due to atmospheric conditions and the lunar standstill.
- The major lunar standstill is a rare phenomenon that affects the moon's position, making this event particularly noteworthy.
Viewing Conditions
- Stargazers were encouraged to find clear skies for optimal viewing, as atmospheric dust and light scattering can enhance the moon's appearance.
- The event was visible across various regions, including the Middle East and North America, with some areas experiencing clearer conditions than others.
Future Implications
- The next occurrence of a Strawberry Moon coinciding with a major lunar standstill will not happen until 2043, making this a once-in-a-generation event for astronomy enthusiasts.
What the papers say
According to Gulf News, the Strawberry Moon rose on June 11, 2025, during a major lunar standstill, which occurs every 18.6 years. This phenomenon causes the moon to appear at its lowest point in the sky, a sight not expected again until 2043. The article notes that while the moon typically appears silvery-grey, atmospheric conditions can give it a warm tint.
The New York Times highlights that the reddish hue of the moon is due to its low position in the sky, which allows it to pass through more atmosphere, scattering shorter wavelengths of light. This aligns with the observations made by astronomers regarding the moon's appearance during this event.
BBC News emphasizes the cultural significance of the Strawberry Moon, explaining its origins in Native American traditions. The article also notes that the moon's low position is exaggerated this month due to the lunar standstill, making it a unique viewing opportunity.
Overall, the coverage across various sources underscores the rarity and beauty of the Strawberry Moon, encouraging stargazers to appreciate this celestial event.
How we got here
The Strawberry Moon, named by Native American tribes to mark the strawberry harvest season, typically appears silvery-grey. However, this year's event was special due to its occurrence during a major lunar standstill, causing the moon to rise at its lowest point in the sky.
Go deeper
- What is a major lunar standstill?
- How often does the Strawberry Moon occur?
- What are the best conditions for viewing the moon?
Common question
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What is the Strawberry Moon and When Can I See It?
The Strawberry Moon, a significant celestial event, rises on June 11, 2025, marking the start of summer and the strawberry harvesting season. This year, it coincides with a rare Great Lunar Standstill, making it an exciting time for stargazers. Below, we answer common questions about this event and provide tips for optimal viewing.
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What is the Strawberry Moon and Why is it Special?
The Strawberry Moon is a captivating celestial event that occurs every June, marking the peak of strawberry harvesting season. This year, it coincides with a rare major lunar standstill, making it an extraordinary sight for stargazers. But what exactly does this mean for the appearance of the Moon, and when can we expect to see it again? Read on to find out more about this fascinating lunar phenomenon.
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What are the major news stories making headlines this week?
This week has been packed with significant events that are shaping our world. From celestial phenomena to geopolitical discussions, and controversies involving high-profile figures, there's a lot to unpack. Here are some of the key stories making waves and what they mean for the future.
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