A Spectacular Night for Stargazers

On the night of April 12, 2025, the skies lit up in a stunning display as the first full moon of spring, famously dubbed the 'pink moon,' made its glorious ascent. Despite its name, this celestial wonder didn’t actually glow pink; instead, it cast an enchanting orange hue as it rose in the eastern sky.

Around the World in Moonlight

Stunning images of the pink moon streamed in from cities across the globe, including San Francisco, Istanbul, Kashmir, and Sydney. Each location showcased the magical allure of this seasonal spectacle.

What Makes the Pink Moon Special?

Named after the vibrant pink phlox flowers that bloom throughout North America in spring, the pink moon reached its full phase at 8:23 p.m. EDT, coinciding almost perfectly with moonrise in many North American regions. As it appeared on the horizon, Earth's atmosphere caused its light to dim and redden, bestowing the moon with soft orangey tones.

The Illusion of Size

When viewed near the horizon, the moon always seems larger than it is, a phenomenon known as the 'moon illusion.' This dramatic effect was amplified during the appearance of April's moon, which, being the smallest full moon of the year, added a unique twist as the moon's orbit brought it farther from Earth.

Understanding Supermoons and Micro Moons

Full moons can be classified based on their position in relation to Earth. A 'supermoon' occurs when the moon is at its closest point (perigee), appearing slightly larger than usual. Conversely, the 'micro moon', like April's spectacle, occurs when it is at its furthest (apogee), making it appear somewhat more diminutive.

The Paschal Moon's Significance

This year’s full moon held added significance as it was the 'Paschal Moon,' crucial for determining the date of Easter Sunday. It traditionally falls on the Sunday following the first full moon after the Spring equinox, which occurred on March 20 this year. Thus, Easter Sunday was set for April 20, 2025.

What's Next?

Look out for the next magnificent full moon, known as the 'flower moon,' arriving on May 12, 2025. Until then, keep your eyes set on the sky for more celestial wonders!