2 days ago
Strawberry moon over South Wales: these are the best pictures
Throughout history, the nicknames used for full and new moons were used to track the seasons. The name for the strawberry moon that has been seen this week comes from indigenous Americans and has nothing to do with its reddish and pink tint. Instead, it marks the ripening of strawberries and the beginning of their annual harvest.
The strawberry moon has a red tint because of its proximity to the horizon, as the light rays must pass through the densest layers of the atmosphere. This is what also gives the rising and setting sun its vibrant colour.
The strawberry moon taken by Tereza Sillett (Image: Tereza Sillett)
While it may not appear as strawberry red to the naked eye, it appears as orange or rusty when its close to the horizon.
Any viewing locations that are far away from light pollution caused by towns and cities give ample opportunity for stargazing and capturing a glimpse of the phenomenon, without the need for any elaborate equipment.
Those viewing the strawberry moon also have opportunity to see even more of space's occupants. NASA said: 'All month long, Mars and Venus will be visible in the night skies. Catch Mars in the west for a couple of hours after sunset, while Venus rises about two hours before the Sun, shining low in the eastern sky in the morning.'
If you have a passion for photography and would like to have your pictures featured, search South Wales Argus Camera Club on Facebook.
