A bright ‘Pink Moon’ will soon appear over NC skies. When to look up
If you’re planning to stay up late this April Fools Day, you could be in for a celestial surprise.
The Pink Moon will be visible Wednesday night, and if you’re expecting a rosy glow in the sky, you might be a little disappointed. The name sounds magical, but the moon won’t actually look pink, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The name comes from a spring wildflower that blooms this time of year in eastern North America: Phlox subulata, also known as creeping or moss phlox. It’s often called “moss pink,” and its peak bloom lines up with April’s full moon.
Here’s what to know about the Pink Moon.
When can you see the pink moon in NC?
The Pink Moon will peak on Wednesday, April 1 at 10:12 p.m.
For the best view, The Farmer’s Almanac suggests heading to an open area and watching as it rises above the horizon.
“At this moment, it will appear larger than usual due to the Moon illusion and take on a beautiful golden hue,” the Almanac says.
Pink Moon weather
Clear conditions are expected in Charlotte and Raleigh on Wednesday evening, according to the National Weather Service.
However, residents in western North Carolina can expect scattered thunderstorms throughout the night.
Tips for viewing the Pink Moon
Here are more tips on how to view the moon from the NASA Moon Viewing Guide:
- Start with your eyes: Before you grab any binoculars or a telescope, take a look at the Moon with just your eyes and try spotting the main features.
- Use binoculars or a telescope for more detail: Once you’re familiar with the basics, binoculars or a small telescope can help you see craters and ridges, especially along the line where light meets shadow, called the “terminator.”
- Focus on texture: Binoculars show surface texture, while a telescope lets you pick out smaller details like crater chains, ridges and grooves.
Portions of this story were previously published in The Charlotte Observer.
