Back from the Eid holiday and feeling all blue? Let’s shove the blues out the window and ring in some strawberry hues, shall we? Because guess what – the entire sky is gearing up to cheer you up, like a cosmic bestie showing up with cake and glitter. And not just with any full moon. Oh no. This one’s super extra. In fact, the sky is about to outshine every rooftop brunch you’ve been to. We’re talking about the Strawberry Moon, rising bright and juicy on June 11 at around 7.32 PM and at 5.55 AM the next day (moonset), that is on June 12 across GCC. And as if that wasn’t enough, stargazers will also be treated on June 11 to a dramatic little number called the Great Lunar Standstill – a rare lunar sashay that only happens once every 18.6 years. I KNOW!! I can barely cope either.
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First Things First! What In The Name of Astrology Is A Great Lunar Standstill?
Glad you asked. It sounds very serious and mystical, doesn’t it? Like the Moon is going on strike. But really, it just means the Moon is doing this mad tilted dance where it rises and sets at the absolute furthest possible points on the horizon. I’ll go a step further and call it the Moon’s version of a yoga backbend – and it’s not an everyday sight. According to the Astronomy and Space Club in Saudi Arabia, the Moon will pop up from its southernmost spot in the sky, serving major “look at me” energy for photographers, stargazers, and anyone who just enjoys nature showing off.
And the Strawberry Moon? Is it Actually Pink and Shaped Like A Fruit?
God, I wish. Imagine! But no, my dear readers, it’s not pink. Or berry-flavoured. The name comes from the Algonquin tribes, who noticed this full moon marked the start of strawberry season. Sensible people! So really, it’s a full moon with a delightful name and a slight yellowy-orange tint if it’s feeling moody and low on the horizon. And this full Moon emerging on June 11 is also the sixth full Moon of 2025, in case anyone’s into collecting celestial trivia.
Oh, and other cultures have even more charming names for it, like the Blooming Moon, the Hatching Moon, Birth Moon, or my personal favourite, Green Corn Moon. Basically, if moons had Instagram handles, this one would have a lot of aliases.
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Where Will It Be In The Sky?
Again, excellent question. According to BBC Sky at Night Magazine, between June 9 and 12, our glamorous lunar queen will strut through constellations that sound like indie rock bands – Scorpius, Ophiuchus, and Sagittarius.
These all chill pretty low in the sky (especially for us in the UAE), so expect that low, mysterious, moody glow. Perfect for broody selfies, long exposure shots!
Why You Should Not Miss This Rare Event!
Alright, here’s the kicker: the Strawberry Moon and the Great Lunar Standstill are happening at the exact same time. It’s like the Moon planned a surprise party for us and actually showed up. If the sky decides to stay clear, this rare event will be visible to the naked eye. Even better? The Al Ojairi Scientific Center in Kuwait says skies across the region are expected to stay clear – so no excuses. You won’t need any fancy telescope, either. Just look up. Maybe get some snacks. Make a night of it.
And remember: the last time this cosmic combo happened was in 2006 – aka the era of low-rise jeans, Orkut (yup, that was a thing, my Gen Alpha peeps). And the next one? Not until 2043, by which time we’ll all be yelling “back in my day” at teenagers and Googling whether our knees are supposed to sound like that.
So yeah, this is your moment. Put down the remote, step outside, and let the sky bamboozle you a bit!
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