
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.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Gulf Today
21 hours 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
a day 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.


Gulf News
15-10-2024
- Gulf News
Two celestial treats to light up UAE skies on October 17 and 19
Dubai: The Dubai Astronomy Group has urged the public to brace themselves for two upcoming celestial events. While the first is the Hunter Supermoon on October 17, the second is the Comet C/2023 and Orionids Meteor Shower on October 19. DAG will be marking both occasions with special events in Dubai. DAG said the Hunter's Supermoon celebration at the University of Dubai will kick off with a lecture on Supermoons which participants can learn what makes the Supermoon unique, how often they occur, and why they are special for astronomers and skywatchers. The event, which will begin at 6.30pm will run till 9.30pm and will include a Q&A session, telescope observations of the Supermoon and an astrophotography session. There will be a charge of Dh40-Dh80 for entry. What is a Supermoon? A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the moon's closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. During this time, the moon appears larger and brighter than usual, offering a spectacular visual treat in the night sky. The term Supermoon was coined to describe this amplified appearance, as the moon can look up to 14 per cent larger and 30 per cent brighter than when it is at its farthest point (apogee) in its orbit, DAG said. It said Supermoons typically happen three to four times a year, but not every full moon is a Supermoon. The specific timing depends on the moon's orbit and its varying distance from Earth. The Hunter's Supermoon is the final supermoon of the year. The moon's proximity to Earth during this time results in a detailed view of its surface, allowing observers to see lunar features like craters and valleys with striking clarity. Comet C/2023 A3 and Orionids Meteor Shower As for the second event on October 19, DAG said the once-in-80,000-years Comet C/2023 will be the visible before it leaves our skies, accompanied by the Orionids Meteor Shower. Comet C/2023 A3, discovered in January 2023, travels through the inner solar system at a speed of 180,610 miles per hour (290,664km per hour) and it made its closest approach to the Sun on September 27. It is now gradually becoming visible again in the evening sky. DAG's special event for the occasion will be held at Al Qudra Desert between 6pm and 11pm. Tickets will cost Dh100-Dh150. Comet explained DAG explained how a comet, a celestial object made primarily of ice, dust, and rocky material, originate from the outer regions of the solar system, typically from the Kuiper Belt or Oort Cloud. As they approach the Sun, the heat causes the icy nucleus to vaporise, releasing gas and dust. This creates a glowing head, called the coma, and sometimes a bright tail that points away from the Sun due to the solar wind. Halley's Comet, as it appeared in 1986. Image Credit: Supplied Comets often follow elongated orbits, returning after many years. Comet C/2023 A3 is a long-period comet from the Oort Cloud, its name derived from the convention used for comets by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS)is a non-periodic comet found in 2023, the third comet discovery in the first half of January. It was found by the Tsuchinshan Observatory in China and the ATLAS project. The Orionids Meteor Shower peaks around October 21 when Earth passes through debris left by Halley's Comet. During its peak, skywatchers can observe around 20 meteors per hour radiating from the constellation Orion, visible in the eastern sky after midnight. These meteors are fast, bright, and often leave glowing trails that linger briefly. The Orionids offer a chance to witness remnants of Halley's Comet, one of the most famous comets in history, DAG added.