Skywatchers are in for a treat tonight, as two beautiful celestial events will light up the sky — a full “Pink Micromoon” and the shimmering northern lights, also known as auroras.
The full Moon is set to rise at 8:22 p.m. EDT (which is 5:52 a.m. IST on Sunday). While it’s called a “Pink Moon,” the name doesn’t refer to its actual color. Instead, it comes from the seasonal blooming of wildflowers, especially pink phlox, which are often seen around this time of year. So, the Moon will still appear its usual pale golden or white hue.
What makes this full Moon different is that it’s a Micromoon. This means the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth in its orbit, known as the apogee. As a result, it will appear slightly smaller and dimmer than usual. This contrasts with a Supermoon, which occurs when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth and appears larger and brighter in the night sky. A Supermoon is expected later this year.
Adding to the night’s beauty, those in higher latitudes may also catch a glimpse of the northern lights. These glowing waves of green, pink, and purple light are caused by charged solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetic field. The auroras are expected to be more visible due to increased solar activity.
To get the best view of both the Moon and the auroras, try to find a dark, open area away from city lights. A clear sky will also make a big difference, so check your local weather forecast before heading out.
Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just enjoy gazing at the night sky, tonight is a perfect chance to witness two natural wonders at once.
