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IPFS News Link • Space Travel and Exploration

See the full Pink Moon rise tonight amid Easter, Passover and Ramadan

• https://www.space.com, By Elizabeth Howell

The full moon of April will rise tonight (April 16), amid Easter, Passover, Ramadan and spring celebrations around the world.

In the United States, one traditional Native American name for this full moon is the Pink Moon, according to the Farmer's Almanac and a NASA overview. Pink is meant to refer to the eastern United States herb moss pink, also called creeping phlox, moss phlox, or mountain phlox.

April's Full Pink Moon will reach its peak at 2:55 p.m. EDT (1855 GMT) and is also known in the United States by other Native American names: the Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon or the Fish Moon. While the peak is instantaneous, the moon will appear full to the casual observer's eye for the days before and after the peak itself.

While you can catch the moon with the naked eye, you will see more details (such as craters) in binoculars or a telescope. Our guides for the best telescopes and best binoculars can help you find the best gear for your needs.

If you're hoping to snap a good photo of this full moon, we can help. Check out our guide on how to photograph the moon. If you're looking for a camera, here's our overview on the best cameras for astrophotography and best lenses for astrophotography.

The April moon has several connotations in different cultures. For example, it is known as the Pesach or Passover Moon; Passover begins at sundown on Friday (April 15) and will end on April 23. 

The moon phases of April also factor heavily into the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, reflection and togetherness, which is also under way during the full moon. Ramadan began with April's new moon on April 1 and will end on May 1. 


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