Editor’s Note: Wow, the Strawberry Moon of 2026 was definitely a treat! We have collected some of our favorite photos captured by sky watchers around the world. If you didn’t catch it last night, don’t worry; it will still appear full for another night or two.
Get ready to see the first full moon of summer when the stunning Strawberry Moon rises tonight (June 29).
The Moon officially reaches its full phase at 7:57 pm ET (23:57 GMT) on June 29, when it is opposite the Sun in Earth’s sky and appears fully illuminated. Although this will be the exact moment of the full moon, our lunar neighbor will look bright and round for a night or two before and after.
The June full moon will be the lowest hanging full moon of the year. This is because it occurs near the summer solstice, when the sun reaches its highest point in the daytime sky. Because the full moon always appears opposite the sun, it follows the opposite path across the sky, tracing the lowest arc of the year.
Look east shortly after sunset to see the Strawberry Moon rise into the evening sky among the stars of Sagittarius.
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The June full moon is known as the Strawberry Moon, a name derived from the short strawberry picking season traditionally observed by Native American tribes. Other names for the June full moon include the “Pink Moon”, “Hot Moon” and “Honey Moon”, according to the time and date.
Despite its name, Strawberry Moon will not be pink. However, as it rises, it may take on a golden or orange hue. This occurs because moonlight must pass through a thicker layer of Earth’s atmosphere when the Moon is low on the horizon, scattering shorter wavelengths of light and allowing warmer colors to dominate.
You may also notice that the moon appears unusually large near the horizon. This is due to a phenomenon known as the moon illusion, a perceptual illusion that makes the moon appear larger when viewed next to distant features in the landscape.
If you’re looking for a telescope or binoculars to use for observing the night sky, our guides to the best binoculars and the best telescope deals can help. Our best astrophotography cameras and best astrophotography lenses will help you get ready to capture your next amazing skygazing event.
Editor’s note: If you took a photo of the full moon and would like to share it with Space.com readers, send your photos, comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com.