This month’s full Strawberry Moon is set to enchant stargazers on June 11, 2023. Known for its unique low trajectory across the sky, this lunar event is the lowest full moon to grace our skies in a decade. Thanks to a rare phenomenon called a major lunar standstill, this special full moon will ride surprisingly low across the southern sky, providing a spectacular sight for those who know how to watch.
The major lunar standstill occurs when the sun's gravitational force influences the moon's tilted orbit, causing it to have its greatest inclination relative to Earth’s celestial equator. This phenomenon results in the moon appearing at its most extreme positions—either unusually low or high in the sky—depending on the time of year. On June 11, the full moon will rise and set at its most southerly point on the horizon, making it a remarkable event for astronomy enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Despite being the brightest celestial body in the night sky, spotting the moon can be challenging for those living in metropolitan areas. Tall buildings and light pollution can obstruct views, making it difficult to catch a glimpse of the full moon. In cities like New York, for instance, the full moon will reach a maximum altitude of just 20 degrees above the horizon, complicating the viewing experience even further.
If you find yourself unable to secure a clear view of the southern horizon, or if inclement weather clouds your sky, don’t worry! There are easy ways to watch the Strawberry Moon rise from the comfort of your home via online livestreams.
The Virtual Telescope Project LivestreamThe Virtual Telescope Project (VTP) will host a live stream starting at 3:30 p.m. ET (1930 GMT) on June 11. Viewers can enjoy stunning views from the organization's robotic telescopes located in Tuscany, Italy. Founded in 2006 by astrophysicist Gianluca Masi, the VTP aims to make astronomical events accessible to everyone by providing real-time views of significant celestial happenings, including planetary conjunctions and meteor showers.
Griffith Observatory Livestream in Los AngelesAnother exciting option is the livestream from the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. This renowned observatory will broadcast the full moon rising from its most southerly position in 18 years, starting at 11:42 p.m. ET on June 11 (0342 GMT on June 12). This event promises to be a spectacular sight for viewers, showcasing the full moon in all its glory.
Both livestreams are completely free and require only a smart device or computer with an active internet connection. So, whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply someone looking to enjoy a beautiful night sky, you can easily participate in this celestial event from anywhere.
Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the stunning Strawberry Moon on June 11. With the help of modern technology and dedicated observatories, everyone can appreciate the beauty of this rare lunar event, regardless of their location.
