Stargazers are in for a treat when the ‘strawberry moon’ graces the night sky in June 2024, coinciding with the arrival of the summer solstice. This celestial event will be particularly special because of the moon’s unique position in the sky and its cultural significance.
Meaning of the Strawberry Moon
The “strawberry moon” is the popular name for the full moon in June, a nickname that comes from Native American tribes in the northeastern United States. They named it after the relatively short strawberry harvest season, a critical time for these communities because it marked the beginning of the summer fruit harvest.
Contrary to what the name suggests, the moon will not appear reddish. Instead, it looks like a typical example full moon, shining brightly in the night sky. However, under certain conditions, such as atmospheric particles and its low position in the sky, the moon can show a subtle reddish or pinkish hue.
NASA explains that the June full moon may appear reddish or pink, especially if it coincides with the summer solstice. This is because the moon will shine through more of the Earth’s atmosphere, similar to the way a setting or rising sun appears red.
This phenomenon is more pronounced at higher latitudes, where the angle of moonlight passing through the atmosphere is greater, scattering shorter blue wavelengths and allowing the longer red wavelengths to dominate.
View the Strawberry Moon
This year the strawberry moon will reach its full phase at 9:07 PM Eastern Time on Friday, June 21. It will be visible in the southeastern sky, rising very low above the horizon. Therefore, it will be the lowest full moon observed in years. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the moon will be 97% illuminated when it rises on Thursday, June 20 at 7:45 PM. It will be fully illuminated when it starts to rise around 8:50 PM on June 21, and remains at 100% full on June 22start to get up at 9:45 pm
The low position of the moon will make it appear larger and more vivid due to the optical illusion known as the ‘moon illusion’, where the moon appears larger when it is close to the horizon. This illusion occurs because our brains compare the moon to objects on the horizon, such as trees or buildings, making it appear larger than when it is higher in the sky.
Additionally, the moon will look bright orange or yellow as it rises, providing a spectacular visual experience. This coloring happens because that of the moon light passes through a larger portion of the Earth’s atmosphere, scattering the shorter blue wavelengths and leaving behind the longer red and orange wavelengths.
Connection with the summer solstice
The strawberry moon The event just one day after the summer solstice, which this year falls on June 20, adds to its significance. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year and the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day the sun reaches its highest position in the sky, resulting in the longest period of daylight.
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This astronomical event has been celebrated in various cultures for thousands of years as a time of renewal, fertility and celebration.
Because the solstice places the sun at its highest point, the moon, which is opposite the sun, will be at its lowest point. This unique positioning enhances the visual effect of the strawberry moon, which makes it seem even more striking. The combination of the solstice and the full moon is rare and creates a powerful natural event that symbolizes the balance between light and dark, day and night.
Cultural and historical context
The June full moon has several other names, each reflecting different cultural and regional traditions. In Europe it is sometimes called the “rose moon” because of the blooming of roses in late June. This name emphasizes the importance of the moon in marking seasonal changes and agricultural cycles.
Other names include the “hot moon“which marks the beginning of the summer heat, and the”honeymoon” or “fellow moon,referring to the moon’s low position in the sky, which can give it a warm hue. The term ‘honey moon’ also ties in with traditional wedding customs, with June being a popular month for weddings and the full moon seen as a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
These names highlight the ways in which different cultures have observed and celebrated the changing seasons and natural phenomena. The strawberry moonespecially recalling the cycles of nature and the importance of the moon in agricultural practices and cultural rituals. It signifies the time to gather ripened fruits and prepare for the bounty of summer.
The best way to view the moon
For the best viewing experience, it is advisable to find a location with an unobstructed view of the southeastern horizon, away from city lights that can obscure the night sky. Light pollution from urban areas can significantly reduce the visibility of celestial events, so seeking out dark, rural locations is ideal.
The moon will be most impressive shortly after it rises, so plan to be outside around sunset. Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the viewing experience and reveal more details of the moon’s surface, such as the craters and maria (dark plains formed by ancient volcanic eruptions).
The strawberry moon its timing with the summer solstice makes it an ideal opportunity for casual stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts alike to enjoy a spectacular natural event. Whether you watch it alone or share it with friends and family, the sight of the full moon rising low in the sky is sure to be unforgettable.
This event is not only a visual delight, but also an opportunity to connect with the rhythms of the natural world and appreciate the wonders of the universe.
