The June Strawberry Moon: 2024 Viewing Guide
The full moon in June, traditionally known as the Strawberry Moon, will reach peak illumination at 9:08 p.m. EDT on Friday, June 21, 2024, according to NASA. Unlike the erroneous reports of a late-June event, the celestial alignment occurs just after the summer solstice, offering observers a low-hanging, golden-hued moon throughout the night across the Northern Hemisphere.
Why is it called the Strawberry Moon?
The name does not refer to the moon’s physical appearance, but rather to the seasonal harvest. According to the Farmers’ Almanac, the moniker originates from Algonquin, Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota cultures to signify the ripening of June-bearing strawberries. While the moon may appear reddish or amber when near the horizon due to atmospheric scattering, it will maintain its standard lunar grey and white coloration once it rises higher into the night sky.
How to watch the June full moon
You don’t need special equipment to view the full moon. Because it is one of the brightest objects in the night sky, it is easily visible to the naked eye, even in areas with moderate light pollution. To get the best view, experts at Sky & Telescope suggest:
- Find an open horizon: Since the moon will be relatively low in the sky, a location with an unobstructed view to the southeast provides the best vantage point.
- Check local moonrise times: Because the exact time of moonrise varies based on your specific longitude and latitude, consult a tool like the U.S. Naval Observatory calculator for your precise location.
- Use binoculars for detail: While the moon is visible without aid, a standard pair of 7×50 binoculars will reveal lunar craters and the darker plains known as maria.
Comparing the 2024 Strawberry Moon to prior years
This year’s Strawberry Moon is unique due to its proximity to the summer solstice, which occurred on June 20. Astronomers note that because the sun is at its highest point in the sky during the solstice, the full moon—which sits opposite the sun—remains at its lowest point. This creates a striking visual contrast where the moon appears significantly larger than usual due to the “moon illusion,” a psychological phenomenon where the brain perceives objects near the horizon as larger than those overhead.
Quick Facts: 2024 Lunar Cycle
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Full Strawberry Moon | June 21, 2024 |
| Next Full Moon (Buck Moon) | July 21, 2024 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the moon turn pink? No. Despite the name, the moon will not change color to pink or red. It will appear its natural color, though it may take on a warm, golden tint during moonrise.
Is this a supermoon? No. According to NASA Science, a supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its perigee—the point in its orbit closest to Earth. The June 2024 full moon does not coincide with the moon’s perigee.
What happens if it is cloudy? If local weather obscures the view, the moon will still appear nearly 100% illuminated for approximately 24 hours before and after the peak, providing a wide window for observation.