As skywatchers prepare for the celestial spectacle this week, the June full moon, often called the “strawberry moon,” promises a visual treat unlike any other this year. Scheduled to illuminate the skies on Friday, June 21, just a day after the summer solstice, this full moon is anticipated to be not only large and colorful but also unusually low on the horizon.
Astronomers have noted that the strawberry moon earns its name not from its color but from its timing. Traditionally, this full moon aligns with the strawberry harvesting season in North America, signifying the onset of summer. Despite its name, the moon won’t appear red or pink; rather, it may exhibit a golden hue, particularly when it rises just after sunset.
Bob Bonadurer, director of the planetarium at the Milwaukee Public Museum, explained that the strawberry moon is renowned for its vivid colors due to its shallow path across the sky. “The low arc of the June full moon makes it necessary for more moonlight to pass through the Earth’s atmosphere, giving it an orange or yellow tint,” Bonadurer said.
This year, the strawberry moon is expected to be particularly low, reaching only 21.9 degrees above the southern horizon at its peak. This phenomenon, known as the “Moon Illusion,” occurs because the moon appears larger when it is near the horizon compared to when it is higher up in the sky.
According to NASA’s Gordon Johnston, the moon will officially reach its full phase at 9:08 PM on Friday, June 21. However, its full appearance will extend from Thursday night through Sunday morning, offering ample opportunities for sky enthusiasts to observe and appreciate its beauty.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac suggests skywatchers look towards the southeast just after sunset on June 21 to witness the strawberry moon ascend the skyline. “It will appear large and golden-colored there,” the Almanac noted, reinforcing the anticipation surrounding this celestial event.
As the first full moon of summer, the strawberry moon holds cultural significance beyond its astronomical attributes. Its arrival symbolizes the peak of the growing season and a time of abundance in various traditions around the world.
Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply captivated by natural wonders, the strawberry moon of June 2024 promises a stunning display of cosmic beauty. Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare to witness a moonlit spectacle that blends science with folklore, lighting up the summer sky with its enchanting glow.
