Discover everything about the rare Strawberry Moon 2025, including the best viewing times, locations, and why this year’s full moon is unique due to a major lunar standstill.
Skywatchers and moon lovers, get ready! A spectacular celestial show is gracing the night sky this week with the Strawberry Moon 2025, a rare and enchanting full moon event. Set to illuminate the sky on the night of June 10 and early hours of June 11, this moon isn’t just any full moon—it’s part of a rare major lunar standstill, making it a must-see spectacle.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know: what the Strawberry Moon is, the best time and locations to view it, and what makes the 2025 Strawberry Moon so extraordinary.
What is the Strawberry Moon?
The Strawberry Moon is the name traditionally given to the full moon that occurs in June. This name was popularized by the Algonquin tribes and other Native American communities, who associated it with the time of year when wild strawberries are ripe for harvesting. Despite what the name suggests, the moon doesn’t turn pink or red. Instead, its name is symbolic of the season.
NASA and the Maine Farmer’s Almanac, which started publishing Native American full moon names in the 1930s, have continued the tradition, helping the term “Strawberry Moon” gain popularity worldwide.
Why Is the Strawberry Moon 2025 So Special?
The 2025 Strawberry Moon coincides with a major lunar standstill, a phenomenon that happens only once every 18.6 years. During this time, the moon rises and sets at its most extreme northern or southern points on the horizon.
This rare alignment causes the moon to appear unusually low in the sky, making it seem larger and more dramatic than usual. In fact, experts say this is the lowest full moon that will be visible until 2043, which adds to its rarity and visual impact.
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When to See the Strawberry Moon 2025?
The Strawberry Moon 2025 will rise in the southeastern sky around dusk on Tuesday, June 10, and will remain visible into the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 11.
The moon will reach its full illumination at 3:44 a.m. EST on June 11, making the early morning hours the peak viewing window. However, skywatchers can begin spotting it shortly after moonrise on Tuesday evening.
Here’s a quick timeline based on location:
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Eastern Time (ET): Full Moon at 3:44 AM on June 11
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Central Time (CT): Full Moon at 2:44 AM
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Mountain Time (MT): Full Moon at 1:44 AM
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Pacific Time (PT): Full Moon at 12:44 AM
Where to Watch the Strawberry Moon 2025?
The Strawberry Moon will be visible across the entire United States and many other parts of the world. However, for the best views, consider the following:
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Rural areas: Far from urban light pollution
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High elevations: Mountains and hills offer clearer skies
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Open fields or waterfronts: Ensure an unobstructed eastern horizon
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National parks or observatories: Ideal for a tranquil and immersive skywatching experience
If you’re in a city or suburban area, try to find a nearby open park or rooftop where city lights won’t overwhelm the lunar glow.
Will the Strawberry Moon Look Pink?
Despite the whimsical name, the Strawberry Moon rarely appears pink. However, because it will be low on the horizon during moonrise and moonset, it may take on a golden or orange hue due to the Earth’s atmosphere scattering shorter blue light wavelengths.
This effect, combined with the full moon’s low angle during the lunar standstill, will make it look much larger and more colorful than a typical full moon, particularly right after moonrise.
A Rare Opportunity for Skywatchers
Because of the major lunar standstill, the Strawberry Moon 2025 isn’t just another full moon. This is one of the most visually unique full moons of the decade. Lunar standstills influence the moon’s declination, or the range in which it appears in the sky.
This year, that range hits an extreme, and the moon will skim the horizon for hours—creating a lasting, dramatic display. According to meteorologists and astronomers, this kind of view won’t happen again until 2043, so it’s a rare opportunity that sky enthusiasts shouldn’t miss.
When Was the Last Strawberry Moon?
The most recent Strawberry Moon occurred on June 21, 2024. However, it did not coincide with a lunar standstill, so while beautiful, it lacked the dramatic appearance of the 2025 edition.
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What’s the Next Full Moon After June?
If you’re inspired by this week’s lunar event, mark your calendar for the next full moon: the Buck Moon, which rises on July 13, 2025. Named for the time when deer antlers are in full growth, this moon is another great chance for moonwatching, though it won’t feature the same low-sky prominence as the Strawberry Moon.
Tips for Viewing the Strawberry Moon 2025
Here are some tips to make your Strawberry Moon experience unforgettable:
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Check the weather: Clear skies are crucial. Use apps like AccuWeather or Weather.com to ensure visibility.
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Arrive early: Get to your viewing spot before dusk to settle in and adjust your eyes to the dark.
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Use binoculars or a telescope: These tools will enhance lunar detail, especially during moonrise.
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Photography: Use a DSLR camera with a tripod and a long lens for the best lunar shots.
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Join a watch party: Many observatories and astronomy clubs host moonwatching events.
The Strawberry Moon 2025 is more than just a full moon—it’s a rare cosmic alignment that combines seasonal tradition with an 18.6-year celestial rhythm. Whether you’re a dedicated astronomer or a casual night sky admirer, this is one event you won’t want to miss.