Strawberry Moon to Light Up UAE Skies on June 11 – A Rare Sight Until 2043

Dubai: Skygazers in the UAE are in for a celestial treat tomorrow, June 11, as the Strawberry Moon—the final full moon of Spring 2025—will rise over the eastern horizon. What makes this event extra special is that this full moon will appear unusually low in the sky, a phenomenon that won’t happen again until 2043.

Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, operations manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG), confirmed to Gulf News that the Strawberry Moon will be visible across the UAE with moonrise at 7:32 PM on June 11 and moonset at 5:55 AM on June 12.

“No special equipment is needed to enjoy this moon,” she said. “Just step outside and look toward the eastern horizon shortly after moonrise.”

Where to Watch

The best views can be enjoyed from open spaces like beaches, deserts, or elevated areas, though it’s still visible from within cities if there’s a clear view of the eastern sky. While not necessary, binoculars or telescopes can enhance the viewing experience.

Though it’s called the Strawberry Moon, it won’t appear pink or red. Instead, expect hues of yellow or orange, especially when the moon is low on the horizon—a result of the Earth’s atmosphere scattering light.

Why This Moon is So Rare

This Strawberry Moon coincides with a rare astronomical phenomenon called the Major Lunar Standstill, which happens only once every 18.6 years. During this time, the Moon appears to rise and set at its most extreme points on the horizon.

“In the Northern Hemisphere, this will be the lowest full moon until 2043,” explained Khadijah. “It will stay close to the horizon, creating a dramatic visual effect.”

Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, this month’s full moon will be the highest in the sky until 2043, with their lowest due in December.

This rare positioning happens due to the Moon’s 5.1° orbital tilt combined with Earth’s 23.4° axial tilt. During a lunar standstill, these angles align in such a way that the Moon appears higher or lower in the sky than usual.

So if you’re in the UAE, don’t miss your chance to witness this once-in-a-generation moonrise—a moment of cosmic beauty that won’t return for another 18 years.