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Moon

Strawberry Moon over the UK

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An incredible full moon was spotted in the skies above the UK on the 5th of June 2020 night. The full moon, this month known as the strawberry moon or rose moon reached its peak this night and made for some fantastic photography across the country from the late afternoon into the evening. This full moon is referred to as the Strawberry Moon by Native American tribes, as it typically comes at the time of year when strawberries begin to ripen.

There’s often a myth the strawberry moon gets its name because it has a pinkish tinge to it but that’s not the case. June’s full moon is known as the Strawberry moon because it coincides with strawberry picking season in the USA. A spokesperson from the Royal Observatory said: In North America, harvesting strawberries in June gives that month’s full moon its name.

The moon rising behind the Shard in London
The moon rising behind the Shard in London

To some, it appears either pink or red when it is close to the horizon, however, it is viewed through a much thicker layer of the Earth’s atmosphere.

The full moon also coincides with a penumbral lunar eclipse, whereby the Earth comes between the Sun and the moon and blocks some of the light. The reduction in light resulted in a reddish tinge on the moon’s appearance, which is why it is coined a strawberry moon.

Strawberry Moon, rises behind Wembley Stadium in north west London
Strawberry Moon, rises behind Wembley Stadium in northwest London

“In the current climate, a lower than average level of pollution combined with a good weather forecast made the view even clearer.”

Why is it called a strawberry moon??

Different cultures have assigned a variety of names to full moons across the lunar calendar in history, but the most well-known and commonly used full moon monikers, such as the strawberry moon, came from Native American culture.?

In June, the full moon is known as the strawberry moon because, in North America, the harvesting of strawberries has historically taken place in June.?

The June moon is also known as the rose moon. in some European cultures, while other cultures know it as the hot moon because it marks the beginning of the warm summer season.?People enjoyed the spectacular view at night. For some, it’s a great opportunity to take photographs.

The Strawberry Moon rises above Bournemouth Pier
The Strawberry Moon rises above Bournemouth Pier
The Strawberry Moon rising over Stonehenge in Wiltshire
The Strawberry Moon rising over Stonehenge in Wiltshire