As May approaches its zenith, stargazers are in for a treat with the upcoming Flower Moon, set to illuminate the night sky on May 12, 2025. This celestial event, which is also a micromoon, promises to be a spectacle for both seasoned astronomers and casual skywatchers alike.
The Flower Moon will reach its peak at 5:56 PM in the UK, according to TimeandDate.com. Despite its peak occurring during daylight hours, the moon will appear full throughout the night, offering ample opportunity for enthusiasts to gaze upon its beauty. This full moon, named for the blooming flowers of May, is steeped in cultural significance. Native American tribes originally coined the term Flower Moon, reflecting the time of year when flowers begin to blossom in warmer weather.
In addition to its enchanting name, the Flower Moon is known by various other titles, including the Budding Moon and the Seed Moon. The Royal Museums Greenwich (RMG) notes that, "Over time, different cultures have given names to full moons across the lunar calendar." This naming tradition underscores the importance of lunar phases in various cultures, particularly among Native Americans, who relied on these cycles for agricultural and seasonal guidance.
For those interested in photography, capturing the Flower Moon can be a rewarding endeavor. The RMG advises finding a location with an unobstructed view of the moon and suggests using a telephoto lens for close-up shots. For landscape photographs incorporating landmarks, careful planning is essential to achieve the best results.
Looking ahead, the full moon in June, known as the Strawberry Moon, will be visible on June 11, 2025, at 3:43 AM. This moon, along with the Flower Moon, is part of a series of full moons occurring throughout the year. In total, the UK will experience full moons on the following dates in 2025: January 13, February 12, March 14, April 13, May 12, June 11, July 10, August 9, September 7, October 7, November 5, and December 5.
In addition to the Flower Moon, May brings the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, which runs through May 28 and peaks on May 5 and 6. This meteor shower is a result of Earth passing through the debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, which takes approximately 76 years to orbit the sun. Known for its high percentage of persistent trains, the Eta Aquariids can produce up to 50 meteors per hour, making it an exciting event for those keen on stargazing.
As the summer months approach, the night sky will continue to dazzle. The longest day of the year, the Summer Solstice, will occur on June 21, 2025, delivering a 17-hour day and a 7-hour night. This extended daylight allows for unique viewing opportunities, including the chance to see Noctilucent Clouds—high-altitude clouds that reflect sunlight and appear in the northern sky during the summer months.
For those eager to experience the summer sky, the Milky Way will be a prominent feature, visible as a band of light stretching across the heavens. During this time, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn will also become visible in the eastern sky before sunrise. Notably, on the morning of August 12, 2025, Venus and Jupiter will appear close together, creating a stunning display for early risers.
The Perseid meteor shower, which peaks on the night of August 12, will also offer a chance to see up to 150 shooting stars per hour. This annual event is a result of Earth passing through the debris trail left by Comet Swift-Tuttle. Stargazers are encouraged to look north toward the constellation Perseus after 10 PM for the best chance of witnessing this celestial phenomenon.
As the summer unfolds, Ireland’s dark skies provide a perfect backdrop for astronomical exploration. With locations like Dunsink Observatory and Blackrock Castle Observatory welcoming the public for observing nights, there are numerous opportunities to engage with the cosmos. The Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve and Mayo Dark Sky Park also offer astronomy viewing events, allowing visitors to experience the wonders of the universe.
Historically, Ireland has been a hub for astronomical discoveries. The neolithic monument Newgrange, built around 3100 BC, is one of the earliest known astronomical sites, where the sun shines directly into an inner chamber on the shortest day of the year. This connection to the stars is evident in the legacy of the Leviathan of Parsonstown, the largest telescope in the world during the 19th century, which contributed to significant astronomical advancements.
As we prepare to witness the Flower Moon and the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our relationship with the cosmos. The night sky serves as a reminder of the beauty and mystery that surrounds us, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. So grab a blanket, head outside, and take a moment to look up at the stars. You never know what wonders await you.
