Strawberry Moon 2025: What to Expect from This Rare Lunar Event

When and Where to Watch the Strawberry Moon 2025

Skywatchers across the U.S. are in for a celestial treat this week as the Strawberry Moon 2025 lights up the night sky. According to NASA, this full moon will appear from the evening of June 10 through the morning of June 12. While its name might suggest a reddish-pink hue, the Strawberry Moon won’t actually look pink—it gets its name from the timing of the strawberry harvest in North America.

This full moon is especially noteworthy not just because of its seasonal timing, but because it will be the lowest full moon in the sky in nearly 20 years. Due to its low position, viewers can expect it to appear unusually large—a phenomenon known as the Moon Illusion.

The Origin of the Name “Strawberry Moon”

The term Strawberry Moon comes from the Algonquin tribes, who named it to coincide with the ripening of wild strawberries. In European cultures, this moon is sometimes called the “Rose Moon” due to the flower’s seasonal bloom.

Though the name suggests a colorful display, the moon won’t take on a pink shade. Instead, depending on atmospheric conditions and your viewing location, it may appear slightly golden or amber as it rises.

Read More: Witcher 4 PS5 Tech Demo Showcases Next-Gen Graphics and Gameplay with Unreal Engine 5.6

Why the Strawberry Moon 2025 Is Special

The Strawberry Moon 2025 is more than just a full moon—it’s a rare positioning event. It will be the lowest full moon of the calendar year, and the lowest in the sky since 2005. This low angle can make the moon seem larger and more dramatic, particularly at moonrise.

NASA notes that during this full moon phase, the moon will also be a few thousand miles closer to Earth than usual. While it won’t be officially classified as a supermoon, it might feel like one for viewers due to its apparent size and brightness.

Will the Strawberry Moon Be Visible in Oregon and Washington?

If you’re located in the Pacific Northwest, you’re in luck—but with some caveats. Sunset in Portland, Oregon, on Tuesday night is expected at 8:59 p.m. According to local meteorologist Chris McGinness, viewing conditions should be favorable early in the evening. However, cloud cover could build later in the night.

Coastal regions like those in southwest Washington may face more significant cloudiness and overnight fog, making the moon harder to spot. If you miss it on Tuesday, try again on Wednesday night when skies may clear.

How Often Do Full Moons Occur and What’s Next?

Full moons occur roughly every 29.5 days, which means we typically see 12 or 13 each year. The next full moon after the Strawberry Moon 2025 will rise on July 10 and is known as the Buck Moon, named for the time when male deer begin to grow their new antlers.

Here’s a look at the full moons for the rest of 2025:

• July 10: Buck Moon

• August 9: Sturgeon Moon

• September 7: Corn Moon

• October 6: Harvest Moon (Supermoon)

• November 5: Beaver Moon (Supermoon)

• December 4: Cold Moon (Supermoon)

October, November, and December will feature supermoons, offering even more stunning lunar visuals later in the year.

What Is the Moon Illusion and Why Does It Matter?

During the Strawberry Moon 2025, viewers might notice that the moon appears unusually large as it rises close to the horizon. This visual trick, called the Moon Illusion, happens due to the way our brains perceive the moon in comparison to objects on the ground, like trees or buildings. The lower it sits, the larger it seems—even though its actual size and distance remain the same.

This phenomenon is expected to be particularly strong this June due to the moon’s unusually low trajectory across the sky.

Final Thoughts on the Strawberry Moon 2025

The Strawberry Moon 2025 is not just another full moon—it’s a rare visual spectacle with cultural, astronomical, and seasonal significance. Its low position in the sky and slightly closer distance to Earth offer a perfect excuse to spend some time outdoors with friends, family, or a telescope.

Whether you’re a casual stargazer or a passionate skywatcher, make sure to catch a glimpse of this unique lunar event. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the upcoming full moons of 2025—especially the supermoons later in the year.

Key Points

• Strawberry Moon 2025 will appear full from June 10–12.

• It is the lowest full moon in decades, creating a dramatic visual experience.

• Despite the name, it won’t look pink—it’s named after strawberry harvest season.

• Visibility in Portland and surrounding areas should be good, barring some overnight clouds.

• The next full moon is the Buck Moon on July 10, followed by several supermoons.

Collected from: KGW8