What Is the Strawberry Moon
The strawberry moon is the traditional name for the full moon that occurs closest to the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. The name comes from the Algonquin tribes, who used it as a signal to harvest ripe strawberries. It is not actually colored red or pink; the moon can appear golden or amber when it is low on the horizon due to atmospheric scattering.
The strawberry moon is the last full moon of spring or the first full moon of summer, depending on the calendar system used. In 2024, it will be the first full moon of astronomical summer, which begins on June 20. The moon will reach peak illumination at 12:08 PM Eastern Time on June 21, but it will appear full for about three days around that date.
When Will the Strawberry Moon Appear
The strawberry moon will rise in the east around sunset on the day it reaches full illumination and will set in the west around sunrise the next morning. Exact moonrise times vary by location, so you should check a local astronomy app or website for your city. In New York City, moonrise on June 21, 2024, is expected around 8:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time, while in London it will be around 9:15 PM British Summer Time.
For the best viewing experience, watch the moon just after it rises or just before it sets, when it sits near the horizon. At those times, the moon often looks larger and more colorful because of the moon illusion and atmospheric filtering. The moon will be visible all night long, and it will be bright enough to cast shadows on clear nights.
How to Watch the Strawberry Moon
You do not need any special equipment to see the strawberry moon. Your eyes are enough, but binoculars or a small telescope can reveal craters and lunar seas on the surface. Find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon for moonrise or the western horizon for moonset, away from tall buildings and bright lights.
Several websites and apps provide real-time moon phases, rise times, and set times for any location. You can also follow updates from space agencies and astronomy organizations that track lunar events precisely. For more detailed skywatching guides, visit Space.com or check the latest data from NASA.