Skywatchers in Saudi Arabia and across the region will have a rare opportunity to witness two celestial events in one night. On June 11, the full “Strawberry Moon” will rise, accompanied by the Great Lunar Standstill — a phenomenon that last occurred nearly 20 years ago.
The Great Lunar Standstill happens every 18.6 years, when the Moon’s orbital tilt reaches its peak. This causes the Moon to rise and set at its most extreme northern and southern points on the horizon, a motion visible to the naked eye in areas with clear skies. According to the Astronomy and Space Club in Saudi Arabia, the Moon will appear from its farthest southern point — a striking visual moment for photographers and stargazing enthusiasts.
This rare alignment coincides with June’s full moon, traditionally called the Strawberry Moon, a term used by Native American communities to signal the strawberry harvesting season. Regional observatories, including the Al Ojairi Scientific Center in Kuwait, are encouraging the public to look up and enjoy what may be the standout astronomical display of the year.
Earlier in June, the Moon reached apogee, its farthest point from Earth. More celestial events are still to come this month, including its close approach to Saturn on June 19, the summer solstice on June 21, and a new moon later in the month. But the combined spectacle of a slightly rose-hued full moon and the once-in-a-generation lunar standstill is expected to be the highlight for many skywatchers.
