Mark your calendars for Saturday, 12th April - the night sky will be graced by the full ‘Pink Moon,’ a stunning celestial event not to be missed. Despite its name, the moon won’t actually appear pink. The nickname comes from the moss pink flower (phlox), one of the earliest spring blooms in North America, which typically blossoms around this time.
Also known as the Paschal Moon, this particular full moon holds special significance in the Christian calendar. It’s the first full moon after the March equinox and is used to determine the date of Easter, which falls on the 20th of April this year.
Adding to the moon’s charm, it will appear alongside Spica; the brightest star in the Virgo constellation. Spica is a brilliant blue giant and one of the most luminous stars in the night sky, making its close pairing with the moon a spectacular sight.
Interestingly, this full moon is also a ‘micromoon.’ That means the moon will be at a farther point in its orbit from Earth, causing it to look slightly smaller and dimmer than usual, though the difference is often subtle to the naked eye.
The Pink Moon will be visible across much of the world, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia and Africa.
For the best view, step outside around sunset and look toward the eastern horizon.
It’s the perfect opportunity to pause and enjoy a moment of natural beauty.