Skywatchers are in for a treat as the 'Strawberry Moon' is set to illuminate the night sky in June 2025. This celestial event, also known as the full moon of June, is particularly noteworthy due to its unusually low position in the sky.
The best time to witness this spectacle will be during the evening of Tuesday, June 10th, as the moon rises above the horizon. The full moon will reach its peak on Wednesday, June 11th, at 09:44 h, but its visual appeal will be most striking the night before, especially at sunset.
This year's Strawberry Moon will be the lowest in the night sky in nearly two decades, a result of the upcoming summer solstice and the positioning of the Sun and Moon. This phenomenon, part of an 18.6-year cycle, will make the June full moon appear exceptionally close to the horizon.
The name 'Strawberry Moon' originates from Native American traditions, coinciding with the beginning of the strawberry harvest in the northeastern United States. This full moon is a signal for the start of the strawberry harvest.
However, cloud cover due to an approaching Atlantic DANA (Isolated High-Altitude Depression) over the Iberian Peninsula may affect visibility. Northern regions such as Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Balearic Islands may experience more compact cloud cover, making observation more challenging.
To maximize your chances of viewing the Strawberry Moon, seek elevated locations away from light pollution, and be patient. Binoculars or telescopes can enhance the viewing experience, allowing for a closer look at this rare celestial event.