June 29 to Feature the Strawberry Moon, a Low-lying Micro Moon
The Strawberry Moon will reach full illumination on June 29, appearing low in the sky as the final micro moon of 2026, with peak brightness at 7:56 p.m. ET.
The full Strawberry Moon will occur on June 29, marking the third and final micro moon of 2026. A micro moon happens when the Moon is at apogee, its farthest point from Earth, making it appear smaller than average. Peak illumination is expected at 7:56 p.m. Eastern Time, although the Moon will rise after sunset in the southeastern sky and travel across the southern horizon before setting just before sunrise.
Because the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun during the summer solstice, the Moon, which is opposite the Sun, will appear lower in the sky than at other times of the year. This seasonal geometry makes June’s full Moon the lowest-lying full Moon of the year, though not as low as the previous year’s Strawberry Moon.
The Moon’s elliptical orbit also contributes to its reduced apparent size, as it will be near apogee rather than perigee. Observers in areas with dense tree cover may find it more difficult to spot the Moon due to its low trajectory.