Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of April’s Pink Moon, rising resplendently on Tuesday night and illuminating the skies through the week. This celestial spectacle will be visible in all its glory, reaching its peak fullness on Tuesday at 7:49 p.m. ET for those on the US East Coast. For those on the Pacific Coast, the Moon’s enchanting ascent will occur around 4:48 p.m. PT.
The Pink Moon has garnered its name from various Native American tribes, each bestowing a moniker that reflects its unique characteristics. The Maine Farmers’ Almanac adopted these Native American names in the 1930s, and the Pink Moon’s designation pays homage to the herb moss pink, a flower that adorns the eastern United States in a vibrant shade of pink, heralding the arrival of spring.
This full Moon is also known by other Native American names, such as the Egg Moon, Fish Moon, and Sprouting Grass Moon. According to the Hebrew calendar, it is also referred to as the Passover or Pesach Moon.
To fully appreciate the Pink Moon’s celestial splendor, a clear view of the night sky is all that is required. While cloud cover may hinder visibility in parts of the Northeast, Southern California, and the South, skies are expected to be clear in the Great Lakes, Upper Plains, Southwest, and Southeast.
For aspiring photographers, the Pink Moon presents an unparalleled opportunity to refine their skills. As the Moon appears full on the days surrounding its peak, photographers worldwide have captured stunning images of lunar features against iconic backdrops, from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Statue of Liberty in New York.