This weekend, the sky will offer one of the most outstanding spectacles of the season. first full moon of springKnown as pink moon, will be visible during the early hours of the morning Sunday 13 2025 AprilThis phenomenon not only represents an astronomical event, but also a key moment in the religious and cultural calendars of different parts of the world.
Despite the name, the Moon will not have a pink color.The name comes from an ancient tradition in North America that relates this full moon with the flowering of the phlox subulata, a wild plant that covers the fields with a blanket of pink flowers during this time of year.
This full moon coincides with the Palm Sunday, the day that marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar. As tradition has established since the Council of Nicaea in 325, The date of Easter is determined from the first full moon after the vernal equinoxThis year, the religious celebration will run from April 13 to 21, during the waning phase of the moon.
What exactly is the Pink Moon?
Although the term "pink" may lead one to think of changes in hue, The Moon will maintain its characteristic silver or slightly golden colorsThe name is due to the flowering of the so-called creeping phlox, which in April turns fields pink, especially in eastern North America. This lunar phenomenon can also be a good time to explore the color of the Moon at different times of the year and how it varies with the seasons.
In addition to Pink Moon, this April full moon has also been named by other cultures as Fish Moon, Ice Moon or even Paschal MoonIn all cases, meanings related to the rebirth of nature after winter and the spiritual connection of human beings with natural cycles.
In tribes such as the Abenaki, Sioux or Cherokee, this moon marked the awakening of plants and the beginning of symbolic harvests such as maple syrup. Old farmer's almanac, one of the most popular sources in the United States, collects these ancestral names that still endure in Western popular culture. This cultural context can lead us to reflect on the myths about the Moon that have been formed over the years.
Astronomical characteristics of this full moon
In addition to its symbolic significance, this event also has particularities from an astronomical point of view. The Moon will reach its full phase around 02:22 horas (hora peninsular española), while passing through the Libra constellation. Although other countries like Mexico will see the phenomenon at different local times, the luminescent effect will be equally noticeable. For those interested in learning more about the satellite's movement, you can consult the article on the moon movements.
This year, the Moon will be at its farthest point from Earth, with a distance of approximately 405.500 kilometers. This phase is known as micromoon, as the natural satellite will appear slightly smaller in the sky due to its distance. However, its brilliance will not be diminished in a significative way.
High in the sky, there will also be other celestial bodies keeping the Pink Moon company. The star Spica, one of the brightest in the spring sky, will be visible very close to the Moon that night. Specifically, it will be located just 0°18′ from the satellite around 00:39 GMT.
When and how to observe it
To enjoy the spectacle in all its splendor, experts recommend looking for areas with low light pollution, such as natural parks, viewpoints, or rural areas far from urban centers. In Spain, there are several spaces cataloged as dark sky reservoirs ideal for astronomical observation. It is also suggested to review the time when the Moon can be seen to enjoy its best visibility.
No need for telescopes or advanced equipment. The Moon will be visible to the naked eye from any geographical point with clear skies. Even so, having a few binoculars or a camera with a good zoom can enhance the experience by allowing you to see the craters and shadows on its surface in greater detail.
Night photography enthusiasts will find this event an excellent opportunity to capture striking images of the firmament, especially if you choose locations where the moon appears just above the horizon, offering an optical effect of greater visual size. To maximize the photographic experience, it is advisable to know some ways the Moon can affect humans in their activities.
A phenomenon with roots in the spiritual
Beyond the scientific aspects, the Pink Moon also sparks interest in spiritual and personal development contexts. For many cultures and mystical movements, this moon marks a period of renewal, introspection and new beginningsSome people take advantage of this moment to do symbolic rituals, meditate or simply reconnect with nature. The practice of rituals during the Full Moon can have roots in different traditions, such as the exploration of how the Moon was created and its influence on humanity.
From the world of ayurveda or Celtic traditions, it is interpreted that this moon carries a energy cycle change, marking the end of winter dormancy and the beginning of a more active and luminous phase in every sense. The resurgence of flora and fauna during April coincides with these astronomical configurations, which have been celebrated for centuries.
Some even make rituals of purification or gratitude, harnessing the energy attributed to this lunar phase to close past stages and open new life paths, whether on an emotional, professional, or spiritual level. This approach may be related to the energies felt during astronomical events like this one, allowing many to reflect on their relationship with water on the Moon and its symbolism.
What to expect in the coming months?
This year's lunar calendar continues to offer important dates for those who enjoy observing the sky. After the Pink Moon in April, the next event will be the May 12, when the Flower MoonThis phase also tends to coincide with the height of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and marks another point of energetic and seasonal transition. Those interested can learn more about the types of moons that occur throughout the year.
Other notable full moons in 2025 will include the Strawberry Moon in June, Deer Moon in July, or the Sturgeon Moon in AugustEach carries with it distinctive symbolism and, in some cases, coincidences with meteor showers, eclipses, or planetary conjunctions. For example, the phenomenon of tides and their connection to the Moon is a fascinating subject that many skywatchers enjoy studying, which can be expanded upon in the tides and the Moon.
These celestial events are not only an excellent way to approach astronomy, but also an opportunity to become aware of the passing of the seasons and the connection we still maintain with the planet's natural rhythms. The Pink Moon, while not a rare phenomenon, continues to spark a collective fascination for its visual beauty and ancient symbolism.
