Dubai residents can expect a spectacular night-sky sight on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, as the Strawberry Moon makes its appearance. This full moon, named by Native American tribes to mark the strawberry harvest season in North America, isn’t actually red or pink. Instead, it glows in warm golden or orange hues — particularly when low on the horizon.
Though the name originated from seasonal farming traditions, cultures worldwide have their own names for this full Moon. It’s also been called the Blooming Moon, Green Corn Moon, Birth Moon, or Hatching Moon, depending on regional customs and natural cycles.
Why Is This Year’s Strawberry Moon So Special?
This year, the Strawberry Moon overlaps with a major lunar standstill, a rare astronomical alignment that happens only once every 18.6 years. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon’s orbital tilt causes it to rise and set at its most extreme points along the horizon — both the furthest north and south.
In 2025, this lunar standstill is at its peak, meaning the Moon will rise exceptionally low in the southern sky over the UAE. This is the lowest June full Moon many will have seen since 2006, and the next won’t come until 2043.
When and Where to Watch in Dubai
The Strawberry Moon will be visible from around 7:32 PM on June 11 across the UAE, setting in the early hours before dawn. The Moon will begin its journey in the constellation Scorpius, pass through Ophiuchus, and complete its path in Sagittarius, all of which sit low in the sky for Northern Hemisphere observers.
For best visibility, sky-watchers in Dubai should head to open, elevated spaces away from urban light pollution. Beaches, desert lookouts, and rooftops offer clear eastern views of the Moon’s rise.
What Makes the Moon Look So Big and Orange?
There are two optical effects at play:
- Moon Illusion – When the full Moon is low in the sky, it appears unusually large. This is a psychological illusion caused by its proximity to the horizon and surrounding landmarks.
- Atmospheric Scattering – The lower the Moon is, the more atmosphere its light must pass through. This scatters the shorter blue wavelengths and allows longer red and orange wavelengths to dominate, giving the Moon its characteristic amber hue.
So if the Moon looks massive and reddish-orange, you’re witnessing both effects in a rare celestial combination.
What Are Other Full Moons Called?
Each full Moon throughout the year carries different names based on cultural traditions and seasonal significance. For example:
- February: Snow Moon or Hunger Moon, due to the challenges of winter.
- July: Buck Moon, when male deer begin to grow antlers.
- September/October: Harvest Moon, marking the closest full Moon to the autumn equinox.
How to Make the Most of This Celestial Event
- Timing: Look to the eastern horizon from 7:30 PM onwards on June 11.
- Location: Choose high or open spaces free from light pollution for optimal viewing.
- Equipment: No telescope needed, but binoculars or a zoom lens can enhance the experience.
- Photos: Use a tripod and longer exposure for stunning moonrise shots.
The full Moon will be visible to the naked eye, and thanks to its low arc across the sky, it will remain close to the horizon for much of the night, making it ideal for photography and family viewing.
This month’s Strawberry Moon isn’t just another full Moon. Its rare alignment with a major lunar standstill makes it one of the most visually captivating moonrises of the decade. For stargazers in Dubai, it’s a moment not to be missed.
So, set your reminders for Wednesday, June 11, and prepare to witness a blend of science, nature, and visual poetry unfold over the Dubai skyline.
Read More:
- Saudi Arabia Resumes Umrah Visas from June 10 – Social Kandura
- Abu Dhabi mandates 4 hours of Arabic lessons weekly for nursery, KG students – Social Kandura
For more local updates on rare celestial events and what’s happening around town, follow Social Kandura.
