Arnab Thokder, Academic Advisor, Epic Public School shares the magic of the rare 2025 Strawberry Moon! Learn why this glowing full moon lit up the sky, what makes it special, and how it amazed stargazers across India on June 11. A fun and educational read for young astronomy lovers!
The night of June 11, 2025, was no ordinary night—it was a night when the sky put on a show, and the moon took centre stage! All across India, from rooftops to gardens, children and grown-ups looked up in awe as the Strawberry Moon rose in its full glory. And guess what? You didn’t even need a telescope to see it—just your own eyes and a little curiosity!
Why Is It Called the Strawberry Moon?
Now, don’t go imagining the moon turned pink or looked like a big juicy berry. The name “Strawberry Moon” comes from Native American traditions, who used the moon to keep track of time and farming seasons. June’s full moon marked the start of the strawberry harvest—a short but sweet season when the berries ripened. So, the name is more about farming than fruit-shaped moons!
A Moon That Doesn’t Come Often
This wasn’t just any full moon. This year’s Strawberry Moon was super rare and very special. Why, you ask? It coincided with something called a Major Lunar Standstill—the moon’s version of a solstice. This happens when the moon rises and sets at its most extreme northern and southern points on the horizon. It’s such a rare event that it won’t happen again until 2043!
A Moon Low and Large
Did the moon look bigger than usual? You’re not imagining things! The 2025 Strawberry Moon took a very low path across the sky, making it seem larger and more colourful when it rose in the evening. This is known as the moon illusion—a wonderful trick our eyes play when the moon is near the horizon. It appeared the lowest since 2006 and won’t be this low again for 18 more years!
When and Where did We See it ?
In India, the full moon was clearly visible just after sunset on June 11, shining bright in the southeastern sky. Many families stepped outside, enjoying the cool breeze and pointing out the moon to their little ones. No fancy gadgets were needed—just a bit of moon magic!
More Than Just Pretty
The Strawberry Moon is more than just beautiful. It marks the end of spring and the start of early summer in the Northern Hemisphere. For many cultures, it’s also a time of spiritual energy and celebration. Some believe this moon brings healing, fresh beginnings, and a time to be grateful for nature’s gifts.
So, if you saw the Strawberry Moon this year, count yourself lucky—you witnessed a celestial wonder that won’t come around again for almost two decades! And if you missed it, don’t worry. The universe always has something exciting in store. Just keep looking up—you never know when the sky will surprise you!
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Stay curious, young skywatchers!
