Washington, United States

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Pink Moon 2024: This year has several spectacular events lined up for skygazers. The upcoming treat is the fourth full Moon of 2024, called Pink Moon. It will rise in the spring sky amid the Lyrid meteor shower.

The nickname "Pink Moon" is not related to the Moon's colour, as many people might think. According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, it is associated with the blooming of certain  wildflowers in early spring, including a type known as "moss pink," native to eastern North America.

Different indigenous cultures have given names to the Pink Moon, as the April's full Moon reflects the season's changes. The Oglala people call it the Moon of the Red Grass Appearing. The Tlingit refer to the Pink Moon as the Sprouting Grass Moon. 

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The Choctaw people call it the Moon of Blackberry, the Cherokee refer to it as the Flower Moon, and the Apache name it the Moon of the Big Leaves, all of which highlight the new growth that comes with the season. In Judaism, the Pink Moon signals the beginning of Passover, an important festival that celebrates liberation and renewal.

The Pink Moon is significant in the Christian tradition and is also known as the Paschal Moon. It is associated with Easter, and its arrival aligns with the lunar calendar. Falling on the first Sunday after the first full Moon following the vernal equinox, Easter celebrations coincide with the appearance of the Pink Moon. As a symbol of rebirth and spiritual renewal, the Pink Moon echoes the themes of Easter.

When And How To Watch Pink Moon 2024?

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The spectacular meteor shower will peak on Monday (April 22). The Moon will be in its full glory, making it an even more breathtaking sight. However, the Pink Moon will be at its fullest on Tuesday (April 23). It will be visible in the constellation Virgo, close to Spica, one of the brightest stars in the night sky, according to NASA.

While the Moon will be visible on Monday and Wednesday, Tuesday is the best day to view as it will be most prominent. Even for North Americans, Tuesday (April 23) will be the prime viewing opportunity as the full Moon rises in the east shortly after sunset. For the best views, one should look at the moonrise and moonset times to play the observation and look for a location with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. 

(With inputs from agencies)