Was There A Strawberry Moon Last Night
June 24, 2021, was a special night for sky gazers. It was the night of the Strawberry Moon. But what exactly is a Strawberry Moon, and why is it so special? Let's explore.
What is a Strawberry Moon?
A Strawberry Moon is a full moon that appears in June every year. It gets its name from the Algonquin tribes who used to mark the beginning of the strawberry harvesting season during this full moon. It is also known by other names such as the Rose Moon, the Hot Moon, and the Honey Moon.
The Strawberry Moon is not a scientific term, but it has become popular among sky watchers and photographers who capture its beauty.
Did the Strawberry Moon Appear Last Night?
If you missed the Strawberry Moon last night, don't worry. The full moon was visible on both June 23 and June 24, depending on your location and time zone.
However, the best time to view the Strawberry Moon was on June 24, when it reached its peak fullness at 2:40 pm EDT. At this time, the moon was closest to the Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual.
Why is the Strawberry Moon Special?
The Strawberry Moon is special for several reasons. Firstly, it marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the winter in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a time of abundance and growth, with many fruits and vegetables reaching their peak ripeness.
Secondly, the Strawberry Moon is the last supermoon of the year, meaning it is the closest and largest full moon of the year. This makes it a great opportunity for skywatchers to see the moon up close and capture its beauty on camera.
How to View the Strawberry Moon?
Viewing the Strawberry Moon is easy and does not require any special equipment. All you need is a clear sky and a good view of the horizon.
The best time to view the Strawberry Moon is when it is rising or setting. This is when the moon appears larger and more orange in color due to the Earth's atmosphere.
You can also view the Strawberry Moon throughout the night as it travels across the sky. However, make sure to avoid areas with light pollution as it can reduce the visibility of the moon.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Moon is a beautiful and special full moon that appears in June every year. It marks the beginning of summer and is the last supermoon of the year. If you missed it last night, you can still view it throughout the week. So, grab your camera and enjoy the beauty of the Strawberry Moon!