What's happened
Tonight, the Strawberry Moon will be visible in the Northern Hemisphere, coinciding with a rare major lunar standstill. This phenomenon causes the Moon to appear unusually low in the sky, a sight not expected again until 2043. Stargazers are encouraged to find clear skies for optimal viewing.
What's behind the headline?
Significance of the Strawberry Moon
- The Strawberry Moon is a cultural marker, originating from Native American traditions, signaling the start of summer and strawberry harvesting.
- This year's lunar standstill enhances the visual spectacle, making the Moon appear larger and lower than usual.
Viewing Conditions
- Clear skies are forecasted for many regions, particularly in England and southern Scotland, providing excellent opportunities for stargazers.
- The Moon's low position may give it a reddish hue due to atmospheric scattering, similar to a sunset.
Future Implications
- The rarity of this event emphasizes the importance of astronomical phenomena in cultural contexts, encouraging public interest in stargazing and science.
- With another occurrence not expected until 2043, this event serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of celestial events and their significance in human culture.
What the papers say
According to BBC News, the Strawberry Moon will be visible tonight, marking a peak in its visibility due to a major lunar standstill. This event, which occurs every 18.6 years, will not happen again until 2043. The Scotsman highlights the cultural significance of the Strawberry Moon, noting its origins in Native American traditions. Meanwhile, Gulf News emphasizes the visual spectacle of the Moon appearing low in the sky, which may give it a reddish tint due to atmospheric conditions. The NY Post adds that June is an ideal month for stargazing, with the Milky Way core also visible during this time, enhancing the overall celestial experience for observers.
How we got here
The Strawberry Moon, named for the strawberry harvest season, occurs every June. This year's event is particularly special due to a major lunar standstill, which happens every 18.6 years, causing the Moon to rise at its most extreme positions on the horizon.
Go deeper
- What is a lunar standstill?
- How often does the Strawberry Moon occur?
- What other celestial events are happening this month?
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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