Who doesn’t enjoy a good night of stargazing? Last month, we saw a ‘smiley face,’ a rare triple conjunction where Saturn, Venus, and the crescent moon aligned to form what looked like a smiley face.
While we wait for the once-in-a-lifetime nova explosion to come around, here’s what to know about May’s full moon, the flower moon.
When is the May full moon in 2025?
The flower moon, May’s full moon, will reach peak illumination on Monday, May 12, at 12:56 p.m. EDT. Clear skies will ensure optimal viewing, so check the weather forecast.
What phase of the lunar cycle is the moon in now?
As of May 7, the moon is currently in its waxing gibbous phase at 79% illumination, according to Space.com. The moon’s phases in May, per Griffith Observatory, are:
How did the flower moon get its name?
You might assume the May full moon is called the flower moon because it’s spring, and you’re right—many flowers are blooming in abundance this month!
The nickname flower moon has also been attributed to Algonquin peoples, a Native American tribe, according to Old Farmer’s Almanac.
When is the next full moon in 2025?
June’s full moon, the strawberry moon, will peak on June 11, 2025.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: When is the May full moon? More on the flower moon, when it will peak in Ohio
Reporting by Mariyam Muhammad, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
