England, UK

A rare astronomical event known as a "major lunar standstill" is providing researchers with a unique opportunity to investigate the potential lunar alignments of the ancient monument of Stonehenge. 

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Every 18.6 years, the moon reaches its most extreme positions on the horizon, leading to an extended presence in the night sky.

This year's major lunar standstill coincides with the summer solstice while creating a celestial spectacle that has captivated scientists and sky enthusiasts alike. 

Researchers from institutions like the University of Oxford, University of Leicester, and the Royal Astronomical Society are now focusing their attention on Stonehenge and exploring whether the iconic stone circle was intentionally designed to align with the moon's movements during this lunar event. 

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Evidence suggested that while Stonehenge is renowned for its solar alignments, the monument may also have had a strong connection to the moon.

Archaeologists have discovered that the site's "Station Stones" - a set of four sarsen stones arranged in a rectangle - appear to be aligned with the southernmost moonrise during a major lunar standstill. 

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"Stonehenge's architectural connection to the Sun is well known, but its link with the Moon is less well understood," said Clive Ruggles, professor emeritus of archaeoastronomy at the University of Leicester.

"The four Station Stones align with the Moon's extreme positions, and researchers have debated for years whether this was deliberate and, if so, what might have been its purpose."

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'Standstill season'

Throughout the "standstill season" from 2024 to 2025, scientists will gather at Stonehenge to document the moon's alignment with the site's features and will aim to gain insights into the historical significance and visual impacts of this celestial phenomenon.

The public will also have the opportunity to witness and engage with the research, as English Heritage plans to livestream the southernmost moonrise at Stonehenge in June 2024 and will also host a talks, a pop-up planetarium and stargazing sessions. 

(With inputs from agencies)