Fresh off the rare blood moon Miami got to see last month, another celestial event is set to illuminate our skies this Saturday, April 12! Known as a “pink moon,” it will be visible as a full moon and appear full the day before and the day after.
What is a pink moon?
The “pink moon,” also known as the paschal moon, is the name given to the full moon that occurs in April. It also determines what date Easter will fall on each year.
Why is it called a pink moon?
Don’t expect the moon to have a Barbie pink glow to it, however. Originating from early Native American cultures, it gets its name from the early springtime blooms of a wildflower native to eastern North America Phlox subulata, a.k.a. “moss pink.” Phlox can range in color from light pink to violet.
Despite its lack of pink coloration, what you will see is a golden (or even orange) hue as the full moon rises above the horizon.
How to see the pink moon in Miami
To get a glimpse of the stunning lunar display, the Pink Moon will make its way into the sky on April 12, and is expected to reach peak visibility at 8:22 p.m. Eastern Time, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. It will maintain its full appearance until Sunday, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled! The Almanac suggests you find an open area for the best viewing of the moon, as it rises just above the horizon, at which point it will appear its biggest.
When is the next full moon?
The next full moon is set to take place on May 12, and it’ll keep up with the spring theme. It’s called the “flower moon,” marking the time of year when everything is in bloom. Following this will be a strawberry moon on June 11 and buck moon on July 10.