In March, we had the opportunity to witness a partial solar eclipse. But this month there’s also reason to look to the sky. The Pink Full Moon is coming on the night of April 13, the Sunday before Easter.
But why is this moon called that? And is it really pink? In this article you’ll find the answer to these and other questions. After all, at Lisboa Secreta we’re always on the lookout for this kind of phenomenon.
A brief look at the Pink Full Moon
According to the Tempo website, the Pink Full Moon is expected to reach its highest point at around 0:22 on April 13. So if you like to stay up late, take the opportunity to look up at the night sky. Best of all, you don’t need any special equipment.
To observe this phenomenon, weather permitting, you can gaze at it with the naked eye and take photos with your smartphone/camera. Or, if you have binoculars and telescopes, you can get an even better view of this astronomical event.
Why does it have this name?
This full moon is special because, according to the Christian calendar, it is the one from which the date of Easter is calculated, which this year takes place on April 20. It is said that this festive season is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring.
Although it’s interesting, the truth is that this curiosity doesn’t help explain the name. In fact, it is said that its origin comes from the American continent, having been given by the native populations to name the flowering of a wild plant: ‘phlax subulata‘.
It should also be noted that, although the name is very attractive, this moon does not have a different shade than usual, nor any pink pigmentation. Even so, it’s worth looking up at the night sky and contemplating it in all its splendor.
When is the next Full Moon?
According to the specialized website Star Walk, the next Full Moon will shine on May 12 and is traditionally known as the Flower Moon.
Will you stay up to photograph the lunar satellite?