Strawberry moon will soon shine over California. Here’s when and how to watch
After two full moons in May, California sky watchers had to wait nearly a month to see another one.
June’s full moon will be the first full moon since the official start of summer.
It comes in the wake of several celestial events, including the Summer Triangle of stars and Bootid meteor shower.
Here’s how you can watch the next full moon:
When is the next full moon in 2026?
The June full moon will reach peak illumination at 4:56 p.m. on Monday, June 29, according to online clock Time and Date.
The June solstice, which marks the beginning of the summer season, occurred around June 21.
As a result, the strawberry moon will be the first official full moon of summer, National Geographic said.
Why is June’s full moon called the strawberry moon?
June’s full moon is known as the strawberry moon because of its connection to the wild berry harvesting season, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.
In June, “Wild strawberries ripen in the meadows, gardens push their first real growth of the season and the sun rides its longest arc of the year,” the almanac said.
Is the strawberry moon actually red?
Despite its name, the strawberry moon won’t appear more red or pink than normal.
“The sphere won’t look any redder than other months, but it can reflect warmer hues if you watch at the right time,” National Geographic said.
For instance, the moon could “appear a reddish color when rising or setting,” according to NASA.
Where are the best places to stargaze?
For the best views of the night sky, get away from city lights.
The ideal stargazing locations offer “unobstructed views of the horizon,” National Geographic said. “Mountains, moorlands, deserts and remote islands are good choices, thanks to their isolation, clear conditions and lack of light pollution.”
