The seventh full moon of 2026 is a special event on the astronomical calendar
Britons are encouraged to look to the skies next week for a chance to witness a rare celestial event marking June's full moon, not due again until 2043.
Those with a keen eye have the opportunity to witness a rare Strawberry Moon reaching full visibility next Monday (June 30), as one of the calendar's most iconic space spectacles.
The event is the seventh full Moon of 2026, following an unusual May featuring two full Moons, and will be visible from 12.57am on Monday in the UK - clear skies permitting.
According to Alan Jones, astronomy expert at 365 Astronomy, the name Strawberry Moon derives from Native American and seasonal farming customs, aligning with the period when wild strawberries became ripe for picking.
This tradition of naming full moons after agricultural cycles, natural phenomena and seasonal shifts has been staple for generations.
Despite what the name might suggest, observers should not expect the lunar surface to take on a pink or strawberry hue.
Instead, the moon's colour remains unchanged, with any warm tones resulting from entirely separate atmospheric phenomena.
Mr Jones said: "The Moon itself doesn't change colour because of its name. Any orange, red or golden appearance is caused by the way Earth's atmosphere scatters light when the Moon is low on the horizon."
These atmospheric effects reach their peak intensity when the moon sits closest to the skyline, creating the anticipated visual display.
"The best time to view the Strawberry Full Moon is at sunset on June 30," Mr Jones advised.
"This is usually when the Moon looks most dramatic because it's lower in the sky and any atmospheric effects are at their strongest."
For those hoping to catch the spectacle, Mr Jones recommends seeking out locations with unobstructed views of the horizon.
He pointed to "open countryside, beaches, hills and parks, which can all provide excellent viewing opportunities".
He added: "While telescopes and binoculars can reveal additional surface details, the Strawberry Moon is best enjoyed with the naked eye."
The expert noted how the June Strawberry Moon is among the most accessible astronomical events of the year.
"You don't need any specialist knowledge or equipment. If the skies are clear, simply step outside, look towards the horizon and enjoy one of nature's most recognisable celestial events."
In London and across the UK, observers looking east or south-east around sunset can watch as the moon climbs higher through the evening.
If the sky is clear, the event makes a good opportunity for photography - a skyline, building, tree line, or open horizon can make the moon appear impressive in a picture.
After June 30, the next three upcoming full moons are the Buck Moon on July 29, the Sturgeon Moon on August 28, and the Corn Moon/Harvest Moon on September 26.