## **Get Ready for the Strawberry Moon: A Celestial Delight in June 2025**
**Stargazers**, rejoice! The magical **Strawberry Moon** is set to enchant us once again this June, marking a significant moment for astronomy enthusiasts and casual sky-watchers alike. Not only is this the last full moon of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, but it promises to be the lowest and one of the farthest full moons from the sun this year.
### **What Makes the Strawberry Moon Special?**
This year’s **full moon** will reach its peak at **3:45 a.m. EDT** on **June 11**. However, the ideal moment to catch this celestial spectacle will be the evening of **June 10**, when it ascends during dusk. Look to the upper right of the glowing orb to spot **Antares**, a brilliant star nestled in the constellation **Scorpius**, which is an astonishing **550 light-years away**.
### **The Astronomy Behind the Beauty**
#### **Why is June’s Full Moon So Low?**
You might wonder why the June full moon is among the lowest of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This phenomenon is tied to the sun’s position in the sky, which peaks during the summer solstice on **June 20** or **21** (GMT). As the full moon is positioned opposite to the sun, it mirrors the sun’s location, resulting in a spectacular dusk display in the southeastern sky that drifts across the southern horizon, only to set in the southwest at dawn.
#### **Farthest Full Moon from the Sun**
Adding to its allure, the **Strawberry Moon** is also positioned quite far from the sun. Earth’s orbit around the sun is slightly **elliptical**—comprised of points where we are closest (perihelion) and farthest (aphelion) from our star. This year, the aphelion occurs on **July 3**, marking the moment the moon will be at its furthest from the sun for 2025, at an approximate distance of **94,600 miles (152,200 kilometers)**.
### **The Origin of the Name: Strawberry Moon**
The name “Strawberry Moon” derives from the wild strawberries that bloom in certain areas of the Northern Hemisphere during this time of year, as noted by [Timeanddate.com](https://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/moon/strawberry.html). Throughout history, various Native American tribes have referred to this moon by multiple names, such as:
– **Berries Ripen Moon**
– **Green Corn Moon**
– **Hot Moon**
– **Blooming Moon**
In English folklore, it’s known as the **Flower Moon**, **Planting Moon**, or **Mead Moon**, while Celtic traditions also refer to it as the **Horse Moon**, **Dyan Moon**, and **Rose Moon**.
### **Key Takeaways**
The **Strawberry Moon** is more than just a lunar event; it’s a celebration of nature and light, intertwining cultures, and ancient traditions. As you prepare to witness this stunning celestial event, make sure to find a comfortable spot where you can soak in the beauty and serenity of the night sky.
So, mark your calendars for **June 10** and prepare for an evening filled with wonder. Happy moon gazing!
—
For more insights on upcoming celestial events, check out NASA’s [Night Sky Network](https://nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov/) and stay tuned for more ways to connect with the cosmos!
