Look up! The strawberry full moon will light up Aussie skies tonight

Here’s where, when and how to see this sweet celestial show.

Tonight, Australia’s night skies are turning on a cosmic spectacle – and it’s got a delicious name to match. The strawberry full moon will rise this evening (Wednesday, 11 June 2025) and it’s the highest full moon of the year, casting an extra-bright glow over the landscape from coast to coast.

But don’t be fooled by the name – this moon won’t actually turn pink. The “strawberry moon” is the traditional name given to June’s full moon in the northern hemisphere, coinciding with strawberry-picking season in North America. Down here, it simply means a dazzling midwinter full moon that’s well worth your gaze.

So what makes tonight’s moon special?

The strawberry moon may even appear larger and more radiant than usual. (Image: Micah Giszack)

This year’s strawberry full moon is not just luminous – it’s lofty. Because the full moon occurs so close to the winter solstice (on 21 June), it will reach its highest point in the night sky for 2025, soaring almost directly overhead in a stunning display of brightness and clarity.

In some parts of Australia, it may even appear larger and more radiant than usual, thanks to a visual trick known as the moon illusion, where the moon looks bigger when it’s near the horizon.

When and where to see it in Australia

You’ll want to look east shortly after sunset, as the full moon begins to rise, as 5.43 pm AEST is when the strawberry moon will reach its peak.

For the best view, head somewhere with a clear eastern horizon and minimal light pollution – think open parks, hilltops, beaches, or even a rooftop if you’re in the city. And bring a jacket – it’s going to be a chilly one. Read our best places for stargazing for some more viewing spots.

How to photograph it

The strawberry moon will reach its peak at 5.43 pm AEST. (Image: Getty Images/Dino Geromella)

You won’t need fancy gear to capture this lunar moment – just a smartphone with night mode can work wonders. If you’re using a DSLR, set your ISO low, use a tripod if you’ve got one, and zoom in a little if you can.

When’s the next full moon?

If you miss tonight’s show, don’t worry – the next full moon will rise on 10 July. But tonight’s strawberry moon is unique in its height and brightness, making it the most spectacular lunar display of winter.

So rug up, head outside, and don’t forget to look up – this rare high-rising beauty is set to steal the show.