April full moon 2025: The Pink Moon hides one of the brightest stars in the sky

Imagine standing under a sky filled with stars, the cool air brushing against your skin, when suddenly, the moon reveals itself—bigger and brighter than usual, casting a soft, ethereal glow over everything. It’s the April full moon, known as the Pink Moon, a name that hints at the bloom of flowers but doesn’t quite capture the true spectacle of the night sky. This moon is special—not just for its captivating light, but because it hides one of the brightest stars in the sky, waiting to be discovered by anyone looking up at the right moment.

But why “Pink”? And what makes this particular moon worth more than a passing glance? As the Pink Moon reaches its peak, it brings not only beauty but a unique celestial event. This April, skywatchers will find the moon’s brilliant light concealing a star that often slips under the radar—until now. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or just someone curious about the cosmos, this celestial pairing is a reminder of how much the universe has to offer, often hidden in plain sight.

What is the Pink Moon?

full moonsThe Pink Moon is one of the more intriguing full moons of the year, but don’t expect to see the moon glowing in shades of pink. The name originates from the pink ground phlox, a flower that blooms around the same time in North America, signaling the arrival of spring. Historically, full moons were often named after nature’s seasonal phenomena, and the Pink Moon is no exception, symbolizing renewal and growth. It’s an indicator that the long winter is finally giving way to warmer days, and life is beginning to flourish once more.

Despite its floral moniker, the Pink Moon doesn’t actually change color. Like all full moons, it will shine with the same pale white glow we are accustomed to, though its significance lies in its timing. Occurring in April, it marks the midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. This makes it a powerful symbol of balance, transformation, and the reawakening of the Earth, aligning with the new beginnings we often seek at this time of year. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on the natural cycles of life as we witness nature’s dramatic change around us.

For many, the Pink Moon is more than just an astronomical event. It has deep cultural and spiritual meanings across various traditions. In some Native American cultures, the Pink Moon is associated with planting and the early signs of growth, urging communities to prepare for the bounty of the season ahead. Similarly, it has ties to various lunar rituals where the full moon represents heightened energy and the potential for transformation. In essence, the Pink Moon offers an opportunity to pause and honor both the literal and metaphorical rebirth happening in the natural world.

Scientific Insights: The Moon’s Position and Timing

The April full moon is particularly special not just for its name, but because of its position in relation to Earth. This full moon will be at its closest approach to Earth during the month, which gives it an extra burst of brightness. This is known as a “supermoon,” a phenomenon that occurs when the moon reaches its perigee—the point in its orbit that brings it closest to Earth. As a result, the moon will appear slightly larger and more luminous than usual, drawing the attention of stargazers who are eager to catch a glimpse of this spectacular event.

Astronomically, the full moon occurs when the moon is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, with Earth positioned between the two. This alignment creates the optimal conditions for the moon to reflect the maximum amount of sunlight, illuminating its entire surface. The timing of the Pink Moon in April aligns with the Earth’s changing position in its orbit as we head toward summer, meaning that its light will feel particularly vibrant against the backdrop of spring’s budding energy. With longer days and clearer skies, this is the ideal moment to experience the full splendor of a supermoon.

This year, the full moon also coincides with the peak of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere, making it a striking spectacle. As the days grow longer and the skies clearer, the full moon offers an excellent opportunity to observe not just its beauty, but the subtle effects it has on the Earth. Some believe that the moon’s gravitational pull affects tides, and in some spiritual practices, it’s said to influence emotions, energy levels, and the natural world in profound ways. Whether you’re an experienced skywatcher or simply a curious observer, the April Pink Moon offers a captivating glimpse into the cosmic rhythm that governs our planet.

A Hidden Star: The Brightest Star in the Sky

While the Pink Moon steals much of the attention on the night it rises, there’s another celestial phenomenon happening alongside it—a hidden star that often goes unnoticed. This year, as the Pink Moon casts its glow, it will also obscure one of the brightest stars visible in the night sky. Known as Spica, this star is part of the Virgo constellation and, despite its prominence, tends to blend in with the moon’s radiant light. Spica is a massive blue giant, over 260 light-years away from Earth, and is one of the most luminous stars visible from our planet.

What makes Spica particularly intriguing is not just its brightness, but its nature as a binary star system. Spica is actually made up of two stars orbiting each other, one being a massive blue giant and the other a smaller companion star. It is often referred to as the “spike” of the Virgin, as its location in the Virgo constellation is near the heart of the figure. While it can be visible during certain parts of the year, the Pink Moon’s appearance will hide this bright star in plain sight, a reminder that even the most brilliant objects in the sky can remain elusive depending on their timing.

The Pink Moon offers an excellent opportunity to observe Spica under different conditions. Typically, Spica is a challenging star to spot on a normal night due to its position within the larger expanse of the Virgo constellation. However, when the moon reaches its peak, its brightness and proximity to Spica will make it a memorable event for those who are tuned into the sky. This serves as a reminder of the intricate dance between celestial bodies, and how events like these—where stars and moons align—create an unforgettable spectacle that is both scientifically significant and awe-inspiring.

How to Watch the Pink Moon

For those eager to witness the Pink Moon and the hidden star Spica, the best advice is simple: look up! The Pink Moon will be visible across most parts of the world, with its brightest peak occurring during the evening hours of the full moon’s arrival. As the moon rises, it will appear larger and more luminous than a typical full moon due to its closer proximity to Earth. To get the best view, it’s ideal to find a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the horizon. A wide-open field or a quiet hilltop could provide the perfect vantage point to witness the event in all its glory.

To also catch sight of Spica, look just below the moon in the sky. The star will be closest to the moon at certain points in its rise and will be most visible when the sky is at its darkest, around the time the moon is fully overhead. While you don’t need a telescope to spot the moon, using one can give you a closer look at both the lunar surface and the star. For those without telescopes, a pair of binoculars can also offer a sharper view, especially in locations with less light pollution. Mobile apps designed for stargazing can help you pinpoint Spica’s position relative to the moon and other celestial objects.

For the most accurate viewing times, check local moonrise and moonset schedules for your region. Depending on where you are in the world, the full moon will rise at slightly different times. In some regions, the moon may be visible as early as late afternoon, while others may have to wait until dusk or even late at night. Wherever you are, taking a moment to look up at the Pink Moon provides a great chance to reconnect with the cosmos and celebrate the wonders of our universe.

The Significance of Full Moons in April

Full moons have long held a place of significance across various cultures and societies, and the April full moon is no exception. In many cultures, the full moon is seen as a symbol of renewal, transformation, and completion. The Pink Moon, occurring during the spring season, embodies these themes by signaling the end of winter and the beginning of the more vibrant, blossoming months ahead. It’s a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, where every ending is followed by a new beginning. Whether it’s about planting seeds for the future or reflecting on personal growth, the Pink Moon serves as an opportunity to pause and take stock.

Historically, full moons were often tied to agricultural practices, as the changing light of the moon helped farmers determine the best times for planting and harvesting. For example, in some Native American traditions, the April full moon was referred to as the “Planter’s Moon,” signaling the time to begin planting crops. These lunar cycles were an essential part of life for many indigenous communities, helping to guide their rhythms with the Earth. Even today, many people turn to the full moon for spiritual guidance, using its light to meditate, set intentions, or manifest personal growth.

As the Pink Moon rises this year, it carries with it the energy of rebirth and change. It’s a powerful moment to reflect on your own journey, perhaps setting new goals or simply appreciating the beauty of nature’s cycles. Whether you view it through a scientific lens or a spiritual one, the Pink Moon offers a chance to connect with the timeless rhythms of the universe and embrace the new beginnings that spring has to offer.