The June Solstice and Strawberry Moon
No need for a telescope! Here are a couple fun astronomical tidbits to enjoy in June.
June 3 – Strawberry Moon
June’s full Moon, which is traditionally called the Strawberry Moon, rises on the evening of Saturday, June 3. Just after sunset, look towards the southeast to watch the full Moon rise gently above the horizon. There, it will appear large and golden-hued. June’s full Moon will reach peak illumination at 11:43 P.M. Eastern Time.
June 21 – Summer Solstice
The summer solstice occurs on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, marking the official beginning of summer! This is also the longest day and the shortest night of the entire year. On the solstice, everyone who lives in the Northern Hemisphere receives sunlight at the most direct angle. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the start of winter! For this reason, there’s no better time to celebrate with a backyard camping session or an evening picnic.
June 21/22 – Planet Party!
The planets are going to celebrate the start of summer, too! On June 21 (the summer solstice), look at the night sky about 40 minutes after the Sun sets. See the crescent Moon? That bright “star” just to the Moon’s left is planet Venus! On the next evening, June 22, look for a dim planet Mars which floats halfway between the crescent Moon and bright Venus.