When is the next full moon? May's flower moon will arrive just in time for Mother's Day

Yahoo! News - May 9th, 2025

May's flower moon will illuminate the New York skyline over Mother's Day weekend in 2025, presenting a unique celestial event as it coincides with a 'micromoon'. This means the full moon will appear smaller and dimmer than usual because it will be at its farthest point in orbit from Earth, known as apogee. The peak illumination of this full moon, which is named for the abundant blooming flowers of May, will occur at 12:56 p.m. on May 12, 2025. Observers can also enjoy bright views of the moon on May 11 and May 13.

The flower moon, a term rooted in the Old Farmer's Almanac tradition, reflects the seasonal change and the ideal planting time for farmers. Full moons occur approximately every 29.5 days, aligning the Earth between the sun and moon, which fully illuminates the moon's surface from our perspective. This particular event being a 'micromoon' adds a special twist, as it will appear about 14% smaller and 30% dimmer than when it is closest to Earth. Such occurrences remind us of the dynamic and predictable yet sometimes whimsical nature of astronomical events. The next significant full moon, called the strawberry moon, will follow on June 11, 2025.

New York Astronomy Micromoon Flower Moon Full Moon Lunar Phases Old Farmer's Almanac

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RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively communicates information about the upcoming flower moon in May 2025, providing both scientific explanations and cultural context. Its strengths lie in clarity and readability, making it accessible to a general audience. However, the article could benefit from a broader range of sources to enhance its credibility and depth. While it holds moderate public interest due to its seasonal relevance, its impact is primarily educational rather than influential in broader societal terms. Overall, it serves as an informative piece for those interested in lunar phenomena and cultural traditions associated with the moon.

Accuracy

The article presents a factual overview of the full moon phenomena, specifically focusing on the "flower moon" expected in May 2025. The explanation of a full moon's occurrence every 29.5 days is accurate, aligning with established astronomical data. The mention of May's full moon being called the "flower moon" due to the blooming of flowers is consistent with cultural naming traditions. However, the claim that the next 'blue moon' will occur on May 31, 2026, should be verified against astronomical calendars. Overall, the article is precise but would benefit from additional sourcing for these claims.

Balance

The article maintains a neutral tone, focusing on scientific and cultural aspects of the full moon without delving into subjective interpretations or opinions. It provides a singular perspective centered on the astronomical and cultural significance of the moon, which is appropriate given the topic. However, it could be enriched by including perspectives from different cultural traditions or scientific experts to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language to explain lunar phenomena. It logically progresses from explaining basic concepts to specific details about the May 2025 full moon, making the information accessible to a general audience. The use of common expressions, such as 'once in a blue moon,' aids in reader comprehension by connecting complex astronomical events to familiar phrases.

Source quality

The article cites the Old Farmer's Almanac, a well-known source for astronomical events, lending some credibility to the information. However, it lacks a variety of sources, such as quotes from astronomers or references to scientific studies, which would enhance its reliability. The reliance on a single almanac limits the depth of authority and could benefit from corroboration by additional credible sources.

Transparency

The article is somewhat transparent in its presentation, explaining the reasoning behind the naming of the flower moon and the concept of a micro moon. However, it does not provide detailed methodology or sources for its claims about moon phases and future astronomical events. A more thorough disclosure of how these facts were derived or verified would improve transparency.