Strawberry Moon to Appear in UK Skies
The Strawberry Moon is expected to rise over the UK this week, marking the first full Moon of the summer season. According to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, it will reach its peak in the early hours of Tuesday, 30 June.
For those wishing to observe the full Moon at a more convenient time, it will appear full in the nighttime sky on Monday, 29 June, and remain full on the following evening.
In the northern hemisphere, the full Moon in June is distinct from others throughout the year as it is the lowest-hanging Moon in the sky. This positioning means it sits closer to the horizon, resulting in the Moon illusion—a phenomenon where the Moon appears larger than when it is positioned higher in the sky at other times of the year.
Why Is It Called a Strawberry Moon and Does It Appear Pink?
The term "Strawberry Moon" refers to the full Moon occurring in June. However, observers may be disappointed to learn that the Moon does not actually appear pink or red during this event.
The name is linked to the time of year the Moon rises rather than its color. It derives from the harvest season observed by indigenous Americans, signaling the period when wild strawberries were gathered, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
Historically, full Moons were given nicknames to help people keep track of time and monitor the changing seasons.
Will Weather Conditions Favor Skywatchers?
Following a record-breaking heatwave in the UK this week, cooler and fresher air is expected to arrive from the Atlantic. Alongside this temperature change, more unsettled weather is forecasted for the early part of the week.
While many areas will remain dry during Monday daytime with sunny spells, an area of low pressure is anticipated to approach during the evening and overnight hours. This will bring thicker cloud cover and outbreaks of rain moving in from the west on Monday night.
Most of the cloudy and wet weather will primarily affect Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England. Conversely, the best chances for clear skies will be across the Midlands, Wales, and southern England.
You can check the weather forecast for your location here.
If weather conditions obstruct your view of this full Moon, there will be two additional opportunities during the meteorological summer. The Buck Moon, named after the time male deer sprout new antlers, will rise on 29 July. This will be followed by the Sturgeon Moon, named after the freshwater fish caught by Native Americans in the Great Lakes, on 28 August.
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