The June full moon, commonly referred to as the Strawberry Moon, will grace the skies on June 11. However, residents of the southern hemisphere shouldn’t expect to see a pink or red hue. In fact, the name “Strawberry Moon” is derived from Native American traditions linked to the strawberry harvest season.
Skywatchers in the northern hemisphere may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of this moon appearing pinkish as it rises lower on the horizon, whereas those in the southern hemisphere will experience it differently. In Australia, the Strawberry Moon will reach its highest point in nearly two decades due to a phenomenon known as lunar standstill, causing it to appear larger than usual as it sits almost directly overhead. Conversely, the northern hemisphere will witness its lowest moonrise since 2006, with the next lunar standstill not expected until 2043.
The moon will begin its spectacular display in Australia from sunset, with optimal viewing times on the east coast starting from around 5:43 PM onwards. While this captivating celestial event can be seen across Australia, visibility is dependent on clear skies and minimal light pollution.
For those wishing to fully appreciate the moon’s grandeur, venturing away from city lights is recommended. However, there are accessible spots for urban dwellers as well. In Sydney, Palm Beach Headland, designated as Australia’s first urban night sky place, offers a prime position, while Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens serve as a serene alternative for skywatching. Additionally, locations such as Sky High in Mt Dandenong or the Snake Valley Observatory, recognised as an Australian Dark Sky Site, are excellent choices for those up for a bit of travel.
For those unsure of where to find the best views, any beach, open space, or elevated area can provide a good vantage point. It’s also wise to consult a dark sky map to identify spots least affected by light pollution.