Skygazers, mark your calendars – the April full moon, also known as the Pink Moon, will rise in all its gentle glory on the evening of Saturday, 12 April 2025. This celestial event is not only steeped in rich tradition and symbolism, but it will also be a micromoon – the smallest full moon of the year. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanack, the Pink Moon symbolises the rejuvenation of life and nature after the long, dormant winter.
What is the April Pink Moon?
Despite its name, the Pink Moon won’t actually appear pink in the sky. The term originates from Native American traditions, named after the pink-hued wild ground phlox that blooms during early spring. It is also known by other historic names, including the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon, and Fish Moon, reflecting the seasonal changes observed in different cultures.
The Pink Moon marks the first full moon of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and has strong links to rebirth, transformation, and seasonal change. In 2025, it coincides with a micromoon – the term for when the Moon is at apogee, its farthest distance from Earth in its elliptical orbit. As a result, the Moon will appear slightly smaller and dimmer than usual, its diameter reduced by roughly 5.1%.
Why is it also called the Paschal Full Moon?
The April full moon holds deep significance in the Christian calendar as the Paschal Full Moon. It plays a crucial role in determining the date of Easter Sunday. Easter falls on the first Sunday following the Paschal Full Moon after the March equinox. In 2025, the equinox occurred on 20 March, and the Pink Moon on 12 April, which means Easter will be observed on Sunday, 20 April 2025.
The alignment of these celestial events ties ancient lunar observations to longstanding religious traditions, continuing a cycle that has influenced Christian festival dates for centuries.
Where will the Pink Moon appear in the sky?
The April Pink Moon will shine in the constellation Virgo, near the brilliant blue-white star Spica. This year’s event adds a bit of extra excitement with a rare occultation – a phenomenon in which the Moon passes in front of a star and temporarily hides it from view. Skywatchers in parts of southern Africa and Central and South America may be lucky enough to witness the Moon covering Spica, a visual delight for amateur astronomers.
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Will the Pink Moon be visible from India?
Absolutely. Indian skywatchers will be able to catch the Pink Moon in the early hours of Sunday, 13 April 2025, at approximately 5:00 AM IST, corresponding to 8:22 PM EDT on 12 April for those in the United States.
For the clearest view, it is best to head to an open area away from city lights – rural fields, hillsides, or even your terrace can serve as perfect observation spots. If you manage to catch it just above the horizon, the so-called Moon illusion may make it appear larger and more golden than it actually is.
What’s next after the Pink Moon?
The last full moon before the Pink Moon was the Blood Moon on 14 March, followed by the Snow Moon on 12 February. The next full moon after April’s spectacle will be the Flower Moon, set to grace the skies on 12 May 2025 at 11:56 CT.
So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply someone who enjoys marvelling at the night sky, the April Pink Moon 2025 offers a perfect blend of beauty, tradition, and astronomy. Keep your eyes up – the smallest full moon of the year promises a subtle yet enchanting show.
