On Sunday, June 4 at approximately 5:43 a.m., a “supermoon” will light up the sky. This phenomenon, which is called “Rose Moon”, “Honeymoon” or “Strawberry Moon” depending on the location, occurs every year at the same time.
Although this full moon is nicknamed “Strawberry Moon,” it has nothing to do with the fruit. According to NASA, Native American tribes gave the moon different names depending on the month of the year. For the month of June, the full moon is referred to as the “Strawberry Moon,” in reference to the region’s rather short strawberry harvest season.
Full moon in June
The June Full Moon is an astronomical event known by different names on different continents. In Europe it is commonly referred to as “Rose Moon”. This designation could come from the roses that bloom at this time of year. However, other sources say that this is because the color of the full moon takes on a rosier hue during this event.
This phenomenon occurs when the moon is very low on the horizon and traverses a thicker atmospheric layer that only lets through orange-red wavelengths. It’s the same effect as a sunset.
In 15th-century Europe, the June full moon was referred to as the “honeymoon,” alluding to a harvest season, this time that of honey.
Will the moon be bigger?
The Strawberry Moon is a fascinating astronomical phenomenon that is not officially classified as a “supermoon”. However, that doesn’t stop it from being exceptional. In fact, on this particular night, the moon is approaching its perigee, the point at which it is closest to Earth, and therefore appears larger than a normal moon. Astronomers instead use the term “perigee syzygy” to describe this phenomenon, but for amateurs, the Strawberry Moon remains a unique opportunity to view our natural satellite in all its glory.
In 2022, the Strawberry Moon was 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual, making for an unforgettable celestial spectacle. Astronomers could observe details of the lunar surface not always visible to the naked eye, while enthusiasts could admire the beauty of our natural satellite in all its majesty.
It should be noted that the Strawberry Moon takes its name from Native American tradition associating this full moon with the time of the strawberry harvest. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation and continues to fascinate skygazers around the world.
In short, the Strawberry Moon is an astronomical phenomenon not to be missed. While not officially classified as a “supermoon,” it still offers a unique opportunity to admire our natural satellite in all its glory.