The last couple of months have been spectacular for stargazers and astronomy lovers. First, the Great North American Eclipse darkened the skies on April 8, leaving us with some breathtaking images. Then, a powerful solar storm caused the aurora borealis to be seen in many more locations around the world. And just recently, a meteor lit up the skies in Portugal and Spain. These events were each limited to certain locations, but now comes a sweeping event that anyone with clear skies can marvel at. Tonight, May 23, a full Flower Moon will shine bright in the night sky.
You might be wondering, what is a Flower Moon? Flower Moon is the name the May full moon receives due to it appearing in spring, when most plants are in bloom. According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, some Native American tribes also called it Mother’s Moon, Milk Moon, and Corn Planting Moon. “The May Moon marked a time of increasing fertility with temperatures warm enough for safely bearing young, a near end to late frosts, and plants in bloom,” the Almanac explains.
If you want to get a glimpse of the 2024 Flower Moon, you can find it by looking eastward. The Almanac says that the full Flower Moon will reach peak illumination at 9:53 a.m. EDT on Thursday, May 23. While it will be below the horizon at this time, the nighttime will still offer a thrilling view.
For the best viewing times in your location, find moonrise and setting times here. In New York, moonrise will happen at 7:44 p.m. EDT on Thursday, crossing the meridian at 12:30 a.m. EDT before setting at 5:10 a.m. EDT on Friday morning. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, the Moon will rise at 7:29 p.m. PDT on Thursday, cross the meridian at 12:33 a.m. PDT, and set at 5:32 a.m. PDT on Friday.
If you're a photographer who's hoping to snap some images, check out a selection of the best lunar photos from a few years ago for inspiration.
Tonight, a full Flower Moon will shine bright in the night sky.
Flower Moon is the name the May full moon receives due to it appearing in spring, when most plants are in bloom.
Depending on your location, the Flower Moon will rise around 8 p.m., cross the meridian around midnight, and set after 5 a.m.
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