Residents across the UAE were treated to a rare celestial spectacle on Wednesday evening when a unique “Strawberry Moon” rose above the eastern horizon – a sight that left skywatchers mesmerised.
Although astronomers had earlier clarified that the full moon would not actually appear pink, the moon did show a faint reddish hue as it first appeared on the horizon – likely due to atmospheric dust and the scattering of light. The phenomenon became even more magical for those who were fortunate enough to witness it live across the Emirates.
Photographers from the Emirati media captured this rare full moon from three different locations – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah – showcasing its subtle pink to orange tones and its low-hanging appearance close to the horizon.
This particular "Strawberry Moon" was especially significant as it marked the lowest full moon of the lunar cycle – a phenomenon that will not occur again until 2043.
It was a rare astronomical event linked to the “Great Lunar Standstill,” which takes place only once every 18.6 years.
