Strawberry Moon shines over Saudi Arabia's Northern Borders Region, occurring once every 18.6 years
Saudi Arabia's Northern Borders Region witnessed a rare celestial spectacle yesterday evening with the rise of the full moon of Dhu Al-Hijjah, commonly referred to as the Strawberry Moon. This event signifies the last full moon of the year 1446 AH, emerging from the farthest point on the southeastern horizon. Such a phenomenon takes place only once every 18.6 years, with the next occurrence anticipated in 2043.
Astronomical experts clarify that this event is associated with the Moon's extreme southern declination, part of the Metonic Cycle, which spans approximately 19 years, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. Upon its ascent, the Moon exhibited a golden-pink hue due to atmospheric effects, earning it the title 'Strawberry Moon,' a name attributed in some cultures to signify the last full moon of spring. The Northern Borders Region has become a preferred locale for observing astronomical events, credited to its expansive horizons and minimal light pollution, which significantly enhances visibility of the night sky.
Story behind the Strawberry Moon
The term Strawberry Moon derives from the fact that June is the month when strawberries are harvested, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. Moons are often named for the seasons, as seen with May's Flower Moon, which references the abundance of blossoms in spring. According to Western Washington University, the Strawberry Moon name was embraced by several Indigenous tribes.
Other Native American tribes have referred to this lunar phenomenon as the Hot Moon and the Blooming Moon, celebrating the spring season, and the Hatching Moon or Birth Moon, symbolizing new life. Beyond North America, Europeans have historically referred to it as the Rose Moon or the Honey Moon, as June marks the beginning of the honey harvest.
Read more | Blood Worm Moon: What to know and how to watch this week's total lunar eclipse
(Photo Credit: SPA)
Tips for observing the Strawberry Moon
The moon is clearest when viewed from locations free of light pollution and at elevated positions. For those planning ahead for 2026, ideal viewing spots should offer an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. Generally, best practices for moon observation suggest allowing 'plenty of time for your eyes to adjust and look carefully,' as noted by
NASA
.
However, the full moon can be observed in greater detail using binoculars or a small telescope, enabling viewers to see various features of the moon, including its mountain ridges and impact marks from other celestial bodies. As for the 2025 Strawberry Moon, it was notably the lowest-hanging full moon of the year as perceived from the Northern Hemisphere. According to EarthSky, this Strawberry Moon was the lowest full moon since 2006, attributed to the major lunar standstill. This phenomenon, occurring every 18.6 years, results in moonrise and moonset happening at the most extreme northern and southern points.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
UAE skies witness rare 'Strawberry Moon' for the first time in 18 years
As the sun sets on Wednesday, those with an interest in the sky in the UAE will have the opportunity to observe a rare and captivating sight: the Strawberry Moon, which is the final full moon of spring 2025. This lunar occurrence is of particular significance, as it has been confirmed that it will be clearly visible across the UAE. Of particular significance is the rarity of this configuration, as it is the final occurrence of this full moon at such a low angle in the sky until 2043. For those keen to observe this natural phenomenon, today, June 11, represents a unique opportunity. The moon will rise above the eastern horizon in the UAE skies today and will remain visible until sunrise the following day. Optimal vantage points for observing this phenomenon include deserts, beaches and elevated rooftops, as these locations are characterised by minimal light pollution. As the moon approaches the horizon, it will appear golden or orange due to the effect of atmospheric particles. The lunar circle will appear significantly larger than it actually is, an optical effect known as the moon illusion, rather than an actual change in size. The Strawberry Moon is a rare astronomical occurrence that combines the characteristics of a Strawberry Moon and a Supermoon, resulting in an exceptional spectacle. This will be observable in the UAE skies after sunset on 11 June 2025. This occurrence marks a significant milestone as it is the first in 18 years and will not be repeated until 2043. The term derives its name from its association with the strawberry harvest season among various Native American tribes, rather than from its actual colour. Depending on the cultural tradition under consideration, this phase is referred to by various names, including the "Rose Moon," "Napida Moon," or the "Green Corn Moon." This occurrence is synchronised with a phenomenon known as a lunar standstill, which materialises at intervals of 18.6 years and is characterised by the moon's unusually low position in the northern hemisphere's night sky. This occurrence marks the first instance since 2006 of a full moon appearing at such a low angle, and it is anticipated that this phenomenon will not reoccur for a period of 18 years. The precise timing of this celestial occurrence has been meticulously determined, with the Strawberry Moon projected to commence its appearance when it ascends above the eastern horizon at approximately 7:32 p.m. UAE time on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The moon will remain visible throughout the night, providing an ideal opportunity for those interested in viewing and capturing it, especially in open areas away from light pollution.
Economy ME
2 days ago
- Economy ME
Strawberry Moon shines over Saudi Arabia's Northern Borders Region, occurring once every 18.6 years
Saudi Arabia's Northern Borders Region witnessed a rare celestial spectacle yesterday evening with the rise of the full moon of Dhu Al-Hijjah, commonly referred to as the Strawberry Moon. This event signifies the last full moon of the year 1446 AH, emerging from the farthest point on the southeastern horizon. Such a phenomenon takes place only once every 18.6 years, with the next occurrence anticipated in 2043. Astronomical experts clarify that this event is associated with the Moon's extreme southern declination, part of the Metonic Cycle, which spans approximately 19 years, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. Upon its ascent, the Moon exhibited a golden-pink hue due to atmospheric effects, earning it the title 'Strawberry Moon,' a name attributed in some cultures to signify the last full moon of spring. The Northern Borders Region has become a preferred locale for observing astronomical events, credited to its expansive horizons and minimal light pollution, which significantly enhances visibility of the night sky. Story behind the Strawberry Moon The term Strawberry Moon derives from the fact that June is the month when strawberries are harvested, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. Moons are often named for the seasons, as seen with May's Flower Moon, which references the abundance of blossoms in spring. According to Western Washington University, the Strawberry Moon name was embraced by several Indigenous tribes. Other Native American tribes have referred to this lunar phenomenon as the Hot Moon and the Blooming Moon, celebrating the spring season, and the Hatching Moon or Birth Moon, symbolizing new life. Beyond North America, Europeans have historically referred to it as the Rose Moon or the Honey Moon, as June marks the beginning of the honey harvest. Read more | Blood Worm Moon: What to know and how to watch this week's total lunar eclipse (Photo Credit: SPA) Tips for observing the Strawberry Moon The moon is clearest when viewed from locations free of light pollution and at elevated positions. For those planning ahead for 2026, ideal viewing spots should offer an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. Generally, best practices for moon observation suggest allowing 'plenty of time for your eyes to adjust and look carefully,' as noted by NASA . However, the full moon can be observed in greater detail using binoculars or a small telescope, enabling viewers to see various features of the moon, including its mountain ridges and impact marks from other celestial bodies. As for the 2025 Strawberry Moon, it was notably the lowest-hanging full moon of the year as perceived from the Northern Hemisphere. According to EarthSky, this Strawberry Moon was the lowest full moon since 2006, attributed to the major lunar standstill. This phenomenon, occurring every 18.6 years, results in moonrise and moonset happening at the most extreme northern and southern points.
Economy ME
3 days ago
- Economy ME
UAE contributes to discovering new exoplanets, marks major milestone in astronomical research
The UAE's International Astronomical Center announced today that the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory, located in the Abu Dhabi desert, has participated in observing and confirming the existence of exoplanets, marking a scientific milestone that reflects the UAE's growing role in astronomical research. An exoplanet is any planet located beyond the solar system. The achievement reinforces the UAE's active participation in leading international scientific projects aimed at deepening the understanding of the universe and exploring the potential for life beyond Earth. UAE collaborates with NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite Commenting on the UAE's latest achievement, Eng. Khalfan Al Nuaimi, president of the International Astronomical Center, said that this contribution formed part of a collaboration with NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The UAE-based observatory employs techniques to analyze minute fluctuations in stellar brightness to detect planets passing in front of their host stars, a widely adopted method for discovering exoplanets. Meanwhile, Eng. Mohammad Shawkat Odeh, director of the center, added that the Al Khatim Observatory officially joined the TESS Follow-up Observing Program (TFOP) in June 2024, following the successful completion of a rigorous training program led by international experts, followed by a successful practical test observing a candidate planet. The accomplishment of discovering exoplanets aligns with the UAE's strategic directives to strengthen its scientific leadership and contribute to global efforts to unlock the secrets of the cosmos, supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure and an ambitious vision for the future. Source: WAM Read: UAE's MBRSC, Firefly Aerospace partner to deploy Rashid 2 Rover to far side of moon UAE expands space exploration efforts The discovery of exoplanets is yet another milestone in the UAE's space exploration success story. In April this year, the UAE marked the anniversary of the first human spaceflight, continuing its significant contributions to space exploration led by its qualified national workforce and ambitious youth. This year's anniversary highlighted the UAE's emergence as a leading space exploration success story in the Arab and regional spheres. Its accomplishments include groundbreaking projects and the development of a skilled generation of astronauts, administrators and technical personnel. The UAE achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of this year by launching six satellites: Thuraya 4, MBZ-SAT, Al Ain Sat-1, HCT-SAT 1, the second phase of Foresight Constellation, and Etihad-SAT. Recent milestones also included February's agreement between Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC) and Thales Alenia Space. Under the agreement, Thales Alenia Space will be a strategic partner in the development of the Pressure Equalisation Unit of the Gateway Lunar Space Station. The UAE's participation in this project signifies a major step in its strategy to establish a prominent global presence in space science and technology. The UAE joined the Gateway project in January 2024 alongside the U.S., Japan, Canada, and the European Union, and announced its intent to send the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to lunar orbit.
