Rare Pink Micromoon and Blue Giant Star Illuminate UK Skies: Optimal Viewing Times
UK Stargazers to Spot Rare Pink Micromoon with Bright Star Spica
This Saturday, April 12, skywatchers in the UK can witness a rare celestial event: a pink micromoon rising alongside Spica, a dazzling blue star in the constellation Virgo. While the moon won’t truly appear pink, the alignment offers a stunning sight visible without special equipment.
The Pink Moon Myth
Despite its name, the “Pink Moon” isn’t actually pink. The title derives from North America’s spring-blooming Phlox subulata wildflowers. When low on the horizon, the moon may briefly take on a reddish hue due to atmospheric scattering of light, but it will return to its usual color as it rises. This full moon is also the Paschal Moon, used to calculate Easter dates.
Caption: The Pink Moon’s name comes from spring wildflowers, not its color. Pictured: April’s moon in Edinburgh.
Micromoon Marvel
This full moon coincides with apogee—the moon’s farthest point from Earth. At 252,000 miles (405,500 km) away, it will appear 7% smaller and 15% dimmer than average. “A micromoon is the opposite of a supermoon, but still a fascinating solar system quirk,” explains Royal Observatory astronomer Jake Foster. Though officially full at 01:22 BST on April 13, it will look fully illuminated from sunset on the 12th.
Caption: A micromoon (right) appears smaller than a supermoon (left) due to its distant orbit.
Spotting Spica
The moon will share the sky with Spica, a blue supergiant 250 light-years away. Despite emitting 20,500 times more light than the Sun, Spica’s distance makes it the 16th brightest star. To find it, trace the Big Dipper’s handle arc to star Arcturus, then continue to Virgo. On Saturday, the moon’s proximity will make Spica easier to locate.
Viewing Tips
- When: Moonrise begins around 8 PM BST, with Spica visible by 10 PM.
- Where: Face southeast initially, then track the moon’s westward path.
- Weather: Cloud cover and rain may obstruct views in Scotland and Northern England; clearer skies expected in eastern regions.
Caption: Spica (left of the moon) shines brightly in Virgo.
Upcoming Full Moons
- Flower Moon: May 12
- Strawberry Moon: June 11
- Hunter’s Moon (supermoon): October 7
Whether using binoculars or the naked eye, this weekend’s micromoon and stellar duo promise a striking spring spectacle—weather permitting.
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Note: Image placeholders indicate where visuals would enhance the article, such as the moon’s size comparison, Spica’s location, and regional weather maps.
