Social Media Buzz: Unique Lunar Phenomenon Tonight
Social media may be abuzz with talk of tonight’s unique lunar phenomenon, but most of Texas is likely to miss out on the fun.
Why? Clouds.
What is a Strawberry Moon?
Tuesday night will see June’s full moon, frequently called the “strawberry moon.” The name refers not to its color, but to the ripeness of the red berries this time of year. According to a 2023 NASA post celebrating the strawberry moon’s annual appearance, the name originates with the Algonquin tribes in the northeastern United States.
Unique Lunar Phenomenon
This year’s strawberry moon will be unique because of how low it is expected to hang in the sky. The rotation of the moon’s angled orbit exists on an 18.6-year cycle and recently peaked in January 2025, according to EarthSky. That peak, called a Major Lunar Standstill, will make the otherwise already low June full moon appear even lower on the horizon.
Weather Forecast
The moon is expected to reach peak fullness at 2:44 a.m. CT, but most Texans might not be able to view it. The region’s recent rainstorms have kept cloud cover relatively thick, limiting the visibility of tonight’s moon.
D-FW Weather Wise
Related: The first round of severe storms is behind Dallas-Fort Worth, but more rain is on the way
Viewing the Strawberry Moon
D-FW residents might be able to sneak a peek around 9 p.m., when the clouds are forecast to be thinnest. After that, clouds are expected to get thicker again as storms move into the area early Wednesday morning.
Much of the United States is expected to have clearer skies, but clouds may also be a problem for the western and eastern coasts, as well as some areas along the Rocky Mountains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the strawberry moon is a unique lunar phenomenon that will be visible tonight, but most of Texas will likely miss out on the fun due to cloud cover. The moon’s low position in the sky and the recent rainstorms have made it difficult for people to view the moon. However, some parts of the United States may have clearer skies and a better view of the strawberry moon.
FAQs
Q: What is a strawberry moon?
A: A strawberry moon is the name given to the full moon in June, which is named after the ripeness of the red berries this time of year.
Q: Why will the strawberry moon be unique this year?
A: The strawberry moon will be unique this year because of its low position in the sky, which is due to the rotation of the moon’s angled orbit.
Q: Will I be able to view the strawberry moon in Texas?
A: Most of Texas will likely miss out on the fun due to cloud cover, but D-FW residents might be able to sneak a peek around 9 p.m. when the clouds are forecast to be thinnest.
Q: What time will the moon reach peak fullness?
A: The moon is expected to reach peak fullness at 2:44 a.m. CT.
