Wednesday night featured the lowest June full moon in 18 years – a so-called "Strawberry Moon".

On Wednesday evening shortly after 10pm, observers witnessed the lowest June full moon in 18 years – an event astronomers call the "Strawberry Moon". Despite its name, the lunar disk will not appear reddish unless atmospheric conditions scatter light unusually.

This month's full moon occurs when Earth's satellite positions itself opposite the high summer sun, creating an optical phenomenon. The moon's unusually low trajectory near the horizon makes it appear larger through what scientists term the "moon illusion" – our brain's tendency to compare celestial objects against terrestrial landmarks.

Origins of the name

The Algonquian peoples of North America first coined "Strawberry Moon" to mark June's fruit ripening season.

European traditions developed parallel names like "Rose Moon" and "Honey Moon", all referencing seasonal changes rather than lunar coloration. Any reddish tint observed would result from Rayleigh scattering in Earth's atmosphere, the same process that creates colourful sunrises.

Astronomers note this particular full moon's 18-year orbital cycle will not repeat until 2043.