Britons basking in the warm weather are in for a spectacular treat this evening as the full Flower Moon blooms in the night sky. This celestial event marks the first of two full moons this month, with the second, a Blue Moon, occurring on 31 May.
What is the Flower Moon?
The name 'Flower Moon' is thought to originate from the abundant flowers that bloom at the start of May as spring takes hold. With temperatures soaring to 24°C in some parts of the country, conditions could not be better for catching a glimpse of our lunar satellite.
A Rare Micromoon
Tonight's full moon is special because it is a 'micromoon'—a rare phenomenon when the moon is at the most distant point from Earth in its orbit, known as apogee, making it appear slightly smaller and a little less bright. However, experts say the size difference is barely noticeable to the naked eye.
What is a Micromoon?
A micromoon occurs when the moon is at apogee, about 252,000 miles (406,000 km) from Earth. Because the moon's orbit is elliptical, it varies in distance. Compared to a normal full moon, a micromoon can appear up to 14% smaller and 30% dimmer, but these differences are subtle.
Best Time to View
The moon will be technically fullest at 18:23 BST, but it will still be below the horizon in the UK. The first sighting will be at moonrise, around 20:46 BST for London, and a few minutes later further north. Due to the 'moon illusion', the moon appears larger when near the horizon, making moonrise an ideal viewing time.
Viewing Tips
For the best view, find a location with a wide, open view of the horizon to the southwest. Avoid areas with light pollution and allow your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. No special equipment is needed, though binoculars or a telescope can reveal craters and other details.
Weather Forecast
The Met Office predicts fairly heavy cloud cover moving in over the UK, with some clear patches in the south and southwest of England. If you miss tonight's moon, don't worry—the second full moon of May, a Blue Moon, will rise on 31 May.
