An astronomical spectacle not to be missed - the Strawberry Full Moon will be exceptionally low and especially sensual this year. And no, it's not the lunar version of a strawberry smoothie.
Strawberry Full Moon 2025: The smallest moon in 20 years will be in the sky on June 11. Ready for a magical pink night?
When the full moon dances just above the horizon
We don't usually expect much more from a full moon than a romantic walk or a restless night's sleep. But this year's June full moon, called Strawberry moon, will be anything but ordinary. On Monday, June 11, 2025, we'll be able to gaze upon one of the lowest full moons in two decades, peaking at 07:44 UTC (that's 9:44 Central European Summer Time). But don't panic - you'll be able to catch it the night before and all the way until morning.
The sun will slowly sink into gold, while this mysterious pink beauty will glide lazily over the horizon, pinning us to the sky – at least for a moment.
Why a strawberry full moon?
If the name conjures up a vision of a lunar dessert, you're only partially on the right track. Name Strawberry Moon It comes from the seasonal naming of full moons used by the indigenous peoples of North America, especially the Algonquin tribe. The June moon heralded the beginning of the berry picking season, hence the name.
Scientifically speaking, a strawberry moon isn't necessarily pink—but when it's low above the horizon, its light refracts through a thicker layer of atmosphere, which can give it a golden, orange, or even a soft pink hue. And yes, if you're in a romantic mood (or just with the right glass of wine), it's more than enough for some Instagram-magic.
One of the lowest moons in 20 years: Why does this matter?
This year's Strawberry Moon will be very low in the sky, making it look much larger and more theatricalNot because the moon suddenly grew bigger (it wasn't visited by a lunar fitness trainer), but because of an optical illusion known as “Moon Illusion” – a phenomenon in which the moon, when low above the horizon, appears larger than usual because it is compared to familiar terrestrial objects (houses, trees, hills, etc.).
This is not just a visual trick for sky enthusiasts, but also a significant opportunity for astronomers and photographers. The moon will have a lower apparent height, allowing for fascinating shots with a long lens, especially just off the east or west.
What exactly awaits us on June 11th?
- Full moon – the most illuminated phase of the Moon's cycle, when the side facing Earth is completely illuminated by sunlight.
- Lowest above the horizon – due to the tilt of the Moon's orbit, it will travel quite low in the sky this year.
- Visible almost everywhere in the world – it doesn't matter whether you're in Ljubljana, London or Los Angeles, unless the weather spoils your view of the sky (read: a cloud at the wrong moment).
- Photogenic moon – an ideal opportunity for an evening photo with the moon's "halo effect" and the city skyline in the foreground.
Practical tips for observation:
- When? The most beautiful view will be in the evening hours of June 10th and 11th, just after sunset.
- Where to look? Towards the eastern horizon – find a location with an open view without light pollution.
- Check the weather forecast. Clouds are the only party crasher you really don't want in the sky.
- Turn on the atmosphere. Bring a blanket, maybe a glass of wine, some soft music – and let the moon enchant you.
The Moon and Man: A Little Romance, a Little Science
Moon has captured the human imagination for millennia. From myths to scientific expeditions, the phases of the moon still influence human moods, ocean tides, and – if you ask an astrological soul – even romantic relationships. The Strawberry Moon is said to symbolize emotional fullness, the end of something old and the beginning of something new. An opportunity for a symbolic “reset,” if you will.
But even if you don't believe in astrology, this lunar phenomenon is special enough from a natural and aesthetic standpoint.
Conclusion: Don't miss the chance for a little celestial magic
A full strawberry moon is not an everyday occurrence. It's a fusion of astronomy, history, culture, and natural beauty. It may not literally brighten your life, but it will at least remind you for a moment how wonderfully mysterious our skies still are.
So if you're looking for a reason to put down your phone for a few minutes, stare at the sky, and simply - you live – June 11th is a real evening. No stress, no apps. Just you, the moon and the sky.
