When will the Strawberry Moon appear on Wednesday and how does it get its name?
Skywatchers around the world will be treated to the enchanting sight of the Strawberry Moon on Wednesday, June's full moon and one of the most striking lunar events of the year.
This celestial event is either the last full moon of spring or the first full moon of summer, depending on its proximity to the June solstice - which occurs on June 21 this year.
Here, ITV News explains what you need to know about what it is, how it gets its name, where you can see it, and when it will rise again.
Why is it called a Strawberry Moon?
Despite what the name suggests, the Strawberry Moon won't be pink or red - at least not in most places.
The name originates from Native American tribes, who used the full moon as a seasonal marker.
June's full moon coincided with the strawberry-picking season in the United States, and so the name was coined to indicate the start of the harvest.
Similar traditions were observed in parts of Europe, where the June moon was sometimes referred to as the Rose Moon or Honey Moon, hinting at both the summer solstice and the traditional season for weddings.
Will the moon be pink?
Despite it's name, the Strawberry Moon won't appear pink, however it may look slightly tinted due to a phenomenon known as 'moon illusion'.
Because of its lower position in the sky during summer months, especially for the Northern Hemisphere, the full moon often appears larger and more golden than usual, when it's close to the horizon.
It's also a supermoon, meaning the moon is at or near its closest point to Earth in its orbit, making it appear slightly brighter and bigger than an average full moon.
When can the Strawberry Moon be seen?
On Tuesday, June 11, the full moon will begin to rise just after sunset and will appear full throughout the night.
In the UK, the moonrise is expected around 9.30 pm, with optimal viewing shortly after.
When can I see the Strawberry Moon again?
The next Strawberry Moon will rise in June 2026, though exact viewing conditions will depend on weather and your location.
There will also be another full moon on July 10, known as the Buck Moon, named for the time of year when antlers begin to grow on male deer.
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