The night sky is set to deliver a celestial treat as June’s full moon also known as the Strawberry Moon rises on Tuesday June 10. The Strawberry Moon will reach peak illumination at 3:44 a.m. ET on Wednesday, June 11. Despite its name, the moon won’t appear pink but is named after the traditional strawberry harvest season of Native American tribes. What makes this year’s event special is that it will be the lowest full moon in nearly 20 years. This rare positioning will give the moon a warm, golden glow, making it a must see event for skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere.
Why June’s full Moon 2025 is called the Strawberry Moon
The name “Strawberry Moon” is not linked to the moon’s colour. It is related to the timing of wild strawberry harvests in North America. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, several Native American tribes used natural events like moon phases to mark the seasons. June’s full moon marked the best time to gather ripening strawberries.
When and where to watch Strawberry Moon
The moon will appear nearly full as it rises on June 10 evening and will reach its peak illumination in the early hours of June 11. For the best viewing experience, find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon and minimal light pollution like hilltops or countryside locations are ideal. You can use tools like the Old Farmer’s Almanac Moonrise Calculator to pinpoint the exact time in your location.Viewing tips for Strawberry Moon
- Watch shortly after moonrise on June 10 for the most dramatic effect.
- Bring binoculars or a camera for better visuals.
- Make it a group or family event to enjoy the night sky together.
- Stay updated on local weather to avoid cloud cover.
When and where to watch the Strawberry Moon in India
The ideal time to view the Strawberry Moon in India is after the sunset on June 11. At that time the moon begins to rise in the southeastern sky. For the best experience to gaze at the spectacular event. You just find an open area with minimal light pollution. In cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, skywatchers should start looking up at the sky from around 7:00 p.m. onward, depending on local sunset times. The moon will appear especially striking near the horizon, offering a warm, golden glow that makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
A Moon hanging like strawberries with a warm glow
This year’s Strawberry Moon will ride unusually low in the sky because of the moon’s 18.6-year orbital cycle. As it stays closer to the horizon, the moonlight travels through more of Earth’s atmosphere, causing shorter blue wavelengths to scatter and allowing the red and orange hues to shine through. It will make the moon appear warmer or reddish enhancing its magical glow.
Will the Moon look pink?
Despite its name, the Strawberry Moon won’t actually be pink. under the right atmospheric conditions, it might take on a reddish or amber tint under the right atmospheric conditions, especially when it’s low in the sky. This visual effect, explained by astronomers like Chris Palma from Penn State University may have inspired the fruit-related name in folk tradition.
A rare orbital alignment
According to experts like John Jardine Goss of EarthSky, this low moon arc is due to a long-term gravitational tug from the sun, which affects the moon’s path over an 18.6-year cycle. That’s what makes this year’s June moon the lowest full moon since 2006. It will offer a rare photo-worthy opportunity to stargazers.Whether you’re an avid skywatcher or a curious observer, the 2025 Strawberry Moon is a stunning and memorable moment to look up and enjoy nature’s rhythm.Read more: NASA captures image of Mars’ Arsia Mons volcano, nearly twice the height of Earth’s tallest mountain
