June 2025 full moon will have a reddish hue and be the lowest in nearly 20 years

The June 2025 full moon, known as the strawberry moon, promises to be a unique spectacle, with a reddish hue and an exceptionally low position in the sky, the lowest in nearly two decades. The phenomenon, occurring on the night of June 10 and peaking in the early hours of June 11 at 3:44 a.m. ET, will be visible worldwide. The special coloration is due to the moon’s shallow trajectory, which passes through more layers of Earth’s atmosphere, and the potential influence of wildfire smoke. The event, tied to a rare lunar cycle called the “major lunar standstill,” has sparked curiosity among astronomers and enthusiasts. Named by Native American tribes for the wild strawberry harvest season, this full moon blends science, history, and natural beauty.

The astronomical phenomenon stands out for its rarity. The June full moon, which typically appears lower in the sky, will be even closer to the horizon in 2025 due to a specific orbital alignment. Astronomers note that the event is connected to an 18.6-year lunar orbit cycle, influenced by solar gravity.

Additionally, the possibility of a pinkish or reddish hue adds extra charm. The moon’s light, passing through a thicker layer of the atmosphere, may take on vibrant colors, especially if smoke particles are present in the air.

• What makes the strawberry moon special? Reddish tones due to the atmosphere.
• When to observe? Night of June 10 into the early hours of June 11.
• Why is it rare? Lowest position since 2006, tied to the lunar cycle.

Origin of the strawberry moon name

The term “strawberry moon” has deep cultural roots. Native American tribes, particularly those in the northeastern United States, used the name to mark the wild strawberry harvest season in June. The name does not refer to the moon’s color but to the agricultural cycle. According to historical records, such as the Old Farmer’s Almanac, other tribes also linked the June full moon to seasonal events, like the blooming of certain plants or the start of fishing periods.

The connection to nature remains relevant. In 2025, the June full moon reinforces this cultural heritage, while its unique appearance draws modern attention. Astronomers note that the name, though poetic, has taken on new meaning with the potential for the moon to display reddish or pink tones due to atmospheric factors.

Why will the moon be so low?

The exceptionally low position of the June 2025 full moon is tied to a phenomenon called the “major lunar standstill.” This event occurs every 18.6 years when the moon’s orbit reaches its maximum inclination relative to Earth’s equatorial plane. In 2025, the cycle peaked in January, but its effects still influence the moon’s trajectory in June.

The lunar orbit is primarily affected by the Sun’s gravity, which, over nearly two decades, gradually shifts the moon’s path. As a result, the June full moon will appear closer to the horizon than at any time since 2006. For observers, this means the moon will look larger and more dramatic at moonrise and moonset, especially in areas with unobstructed horizons, such as open fields or coastal regions.

The science behind the reddish hue

The reddish hue of the 2025 strawberry moon is an optical phenomenon. When the moon is low in the sky, its light travels a greater distance through Earth’s atmosphere compared to when it is overhead. This longer path allows the atmosphere to scatter shorter-wavelength colors, like blue, leaving red and orange tones to dominate.

Additional factors may enhance this coloration. In 2025, smoke from wildfires, particularly in Canada, could add particles to the atmosphere, amplifying the effect. Astronomers note that similar atmospheric conditions have created vividly colored full moons in past years, such as in 2016, when the strawberry moon was photographed with a pinkish glow in various parts of the world.

• Factors influencing the color:
  • Low trajectory of the moon in the sky.
  • Light scattering by the atmosphere.
  • Smoke particles from wildfires.
  • Local weather conditions.

Where and how to observe the phenomenon

The June 2025 full moon will be visible on nearly every continent, provided the sky is clear. On the night of June 10, the moon will begin to rise at dusk, offering a visual spectacle for those in areas with good visibility. Cities with open horizons, rural areas, or mountainous regions are ideal for observing the event.

To make the most of it, astronomers recommend avoiding areas with heavy light pollution. Telescopes or binoculars are not necessary but can enhance details of the lunar surface. Amateur photographers will also have a unique opportunity, as the moon’s low position makes it easier to frame with terrestrial elements, like trees or buildings.

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A rare lunar cycle

The “major lunar standstill” is one of the most fascinating aspects of the 2025 full moon. This cycle, occurring every 18.6 years, results from the interaction between the moon’s orbit and solar gravity. Unlike eclipses, which are more frequent, the standstill subtly but noticeably affects the moon’s position.

In 2006, the last major lunar standstill produced a similarly low June full moon, observed by astronomers worldwide. In 2025, the phenomenon will be even more striking due to the proximity to the cycle’s peak in January. Experts highlight that the event is a rare opportunity to study celestial mechanics and appreciate the complexity of orbital movements.

Curiosities about the strawberry moon

The June full moon carries meanings beyond astronomy. Its history and unique characteristics make it a cultural and scientific landmark.

• Alternative names: Some Native tribes called the June moon the “rose moon” or “hot moon,” reflecting the climate and flora of the season.
• Cultural impact: Festivals and celebrations in various cultures mark the June full moon as a time of renewal.
• Historical observations: Records of colored full moons date back centuries, with descriptions of reddish tones during specific atmospheric events.
• Photography: The moon’s low position in 2025 will be ideal for images combining the celestial body with terrestrial landscapes.

Atmospheric conditions and their influence

The possibility of a reddish moon in 2025 depends on specific atmospheric conditions. Wildfires in the northern hemisphere, particularly in Canada, have released large amounts of smoke in recent years, creating ideal scenarios for colored moons. In 2024, for example, smoke from wildfires in the western United States produced full moons with orange tones in several regions.

Beyond smoke, humidity and cloud cover can also affect visibility. Regions with clear skies will have the best chances of observing the strawberry moon’s unique hue. Astronomers recommend checking local weather forecasts to plan observations.

A global event

The 2025 strawberry moon will not be exclusive to one region. From the northern to the southern hemisphere, observers in different time zones will be able to enjoy the phenomenon, weather permitting. In places like South America, the moon will rise in the early evening of June 10, while in Asia and Australia, the event will be more visible in the early hours of June 11.

The event’s universality underscores its significance. Astronomers note that the June full moon is an opportunity to connect people around a natural spectacle. Observatories and planetariums in cities like Milwaukee and New York are already planning events to promote public observation.

Observation preparations

For those looking to photograph or simply enjoy the full moon, some precautions are essential. Choosing a location with an unobstructed horizon is the first step. Areas far from urban centers offer less light pollution, enhancing the moon’s brightness.

Photographers should adjust their cameras for long exposure to capture the reddish hue more accurately. Astronomy apps, such as Stellarium or SkySafari, can help predict the exact moonrise time in each location.