Strawberry Moon and Lunistice Create Rare Celestial Spectacle

Strawberry Moon and Lunistice: A Rare Celestial Double Feature Spain – June 11, 2025 witnessed a spectacular celestial event: the Strawberry Moon reached its peak at 9:44 AM (Spanish peninsular time). This annual full moon gained additional significance this year due to its concurrence with the lunistice, a phenomenon that only occurs every 18.6 years. The Strawberry Moon, as explained by a news report from La Voz de Galicia, derives its name from Native American traditions associating the June full moon with strawberry harvesting season. "The Strawberry Moon doesn't literally turn pinkish like a strawberry; it usually has more golden, orange, or even reddish hues," stated the reporter in the video. This year, however, the lunistice added an unusual element. The lunistice, according to astronomical data, causes the full moon to appear lower on the horizon than usual, thereby creating the illusion of a larger and more vibrant moon, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. This rare combination of the Strawberry Moon and the lunistice created a unique spectacle for skywatchers across Spain and beyond, offering a reminder of the wonders of the natural world. The event's rarity and visual appeal make it a captivating story for a wider audience.