Stargazers are in for a treat as the «strawberry moon» graces the night sky in June 2024, coinciding with the arrival of the summer solstice. This celestial event will be especially special because of the moon’s unique position in the sky and its cultural significance.
The significance of the Strawberry Moon
«Strawberry Moon» is the popular name for full moon in June, a name originating from Native American tribes in the northeastern United States. They named it after the relatively short strawberry picking season, a critical time for these communities as it marked the beginning of the summer fruit harvest.
Contrary to what the name suggests, the moon will not appear reddish. Instead, it will look like a typical one full moon, shining in the night sky. However, under certain conditions, such as atmospheric particles and its low position in the sky, the moon can display a subtle reddish or pink tint.
NASA explains that June full moon may appear reddish or pink, especially when coinciding with summer solstice. This is because the moon will shine through more of Earth’s atmosphere, similar to how the sunset or sunrise appears red.
This phenomenon is more pronounced at higher latitudes, where the angle of moonlight passing through the atmosphere is longer, scattering shorter blue wavelengths and allowing longer red wavelengths to dominate.
Sighting of the Strawberry Moon
This year, strawberry moon will reach the most complete stage at 9:07 PM ET on Friday, June 21. It will be visible in the southeastern sky, rising very low above the horizon, making it the lowest full moon observed in years. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the moon will be 97% illuminated when it rises around 19:45 on Thursday, June 20. It will become fully illuminated as it begins to rise at around 20:50 on June 21 and will remain at 100% complete on June 22starting to rises at 9:45 p.m
Low position i MONDAY it 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 brain compares 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 appear bright orange or yellow as it waxes, providing a spectacular visual experience. This coloring occurs because on Monday light is passing through much of the Earth’s atmosphere, scattering the shorter blue wavelengths and leaving the longer red and orange wavelengths.
Linking to the Summer Solstice
Strawberry Moon the occurrence just one day after the summer solstice, which falls on June 20 this year, adds to its importance. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year and the beginning 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 for millennia in various cultures as a time of renewal, fertility and celebration.
BECAUSE the places of the solstice the sun at its highest point, the moon, being opposite the sun, will be at its lowest point. This unique positioning enhances the visual effect of strawberry moon, making it look even more amazing. The combination of the solstice and the full moon is rare and creates a powerful natural event that symbolizes the balance of light and dark, day and night.
Cultural and historical context
of June full moon there are various other names, each reflecting different cultural and regional traditions. In Europe, it is sometimes called the «rose moon» because roses bloom in late June. This name highlights the importance of the moon in marking seasonal changes and agricultural cycles.
Other names include «hot moon«, marking the onset of summer heat, and «honeymoon«or»mid moon,» referring to the moon’s low position in the sky that can give it a warm hue. The term «honeymoon» is also associated with traditional wedding customs, where June was a popular month for marriages and the full moon was 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. of strawberry moon, in particular, is a reminder of the cycles of nature and the importance of the moon in agricultural practices and cultural rituals. It signifies the time to gather ripe fruit and prepare for the abundance of summer.
How to see the moon better
For the best viewing experience, it is advisable to find a location with a clear 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 searching for dark, rural locations is ideal.
MONDAY it will be most impressive just after sunrise, so plan to be out around sunset. Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the viewing experience, revealing more details of the moon’s surface, such as craters and maria (dark plains formed by ancient volcanic eruptions).
Strawberry Moon the timing of the summer solstice makes it an ideal opportunity for both casual stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to enjoy a spectacular natural event. Whether viewed alone or shared 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 treat, but also a chance to connect with the rhythms of the natural world and appreciate the wonders of the universe.
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Image Source : dailygalaxy.com