Here’s how and when to watch the full Flower Moon this week, according to the Farmer’s Almanac
Spring has sprung, even in space.
May is often referred to as the “month of flowers,” and it is with no surprise, as pinks, purples and yellows are peppered within yards, fields and gardens.
However, the beauty doesn’t stop on land.
The month of May also brings a special moon phase, ultimately resulting in a full moon called the “Flower Moon.”
Here’s what to know before the Flower Moon’s peak illumination on May 5:
What is the Flower Moon?
The Flower Moon is a full moon in the month of May. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the flower moon signifies spring’s peak and the warmer weather of summer ahead.
This year’s Flower Moon is the fifth full moon of 2023 and with it will also be a penumbral (shadowed) lunar eclipse. A lunar eclipse is when the moon dims, but does not fully go dark in the sky.
When can it be seen in the sky?
The peak illumination of the Flower Moon is Friday, May 5 at 1:36 p.m. EDT. The moon can best be seen at night, when it is still at 90-95% illumination.
To see when the moon rises in your area, go to the Farmer’s Almanac website and type in your zip code.
For the best viewing experience, go to an open field or somewhere with no outside lights and look up at the night sky.
What makes the Flower Moon special?
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the Flower Moon means spring is in the air and warmer weather is coming fast.
Throughout history, the Flower Moon is rumored to be a good time for planting seeds for the farming season ahead and a good time for animals, as it is nicknamed the Frog Moon and the Egg Laying Moon.
This month, the Farmer’s Almanac also predicts “best days” for certain activities. This month’s activities are fishing and gardening:
According to the Almanac, the best times to fish this month are May 1-5 and 19-31
Likewise, the best time for gardening is May 4, 22 and 23 for aboveground crops and May 13-14 for underground crops.
Will you be watching the Flower Moon? Comment below and tell us your thoughts.
This story was originally published May 4, 2023 at 10:01 AM.
