The Moon’s journey across the sky varies with each Full Moon, influenced by its unique orbit. While December brought the “Long Night’s Full Moon,” which was notable for its position at the highest point in the sky for twenty years, the June 2025 Full Moon will make its appearance with a steep southward trajectory. This phenomenon highlights the Moon’s orbit, which is inclined at an angle of 5.15 degrees relative to the ecliptic.
This inclination allows the Moon to shift significantly in the sky, traveling between 28.65 degrees north and south of the celestial equator. As a byproduct of this tilt, eclipses do not occur during every lunar cycle but are generally seen during specific biannual eclipse seasons.
The Major Lunar Standstill, which last occurred in 2006, involves a complete cycle of approximately 18.6 years, culminating in heightened variations in the Moon’s path. The next crossing will occur on January 29, 2025, after which the apparent path will begin to lessen again due to the gradual nodal precession influenced by the Sun.
Notably, the Moon can be observed within 18 modern constellations, while its significance was recognized by ancient civilizations, with sites like the Callanish Stones in Scotland being aligned to track its movements.
The June Full Moon, known as the Strawberry Moon, will be particularly low for observers in mid-northern latitudes. However, those in southern locales will enjoy a higher view of the Moon. As it occults stars like Spica and Antares around June 6th and 10th, it sets the stage for an intriguing astronomical summer. Observers are encouraged to take note of the rising Moon’s position on the 10th and 11th, utilizing personal vantage points for a unique experience.
As we look forward to these celestial events, they remind us of the continuous dance between the Earth and the Moon, inviting wonder and appreciation for the cosmos that lights our nights.