The rare “pink moon” will make its yearly appearance in Sydney skies this week. Though officially peaking on April 2 at 1:11PM AEDT, optimal viewing times are set to be the nights of April 1 and 2. While the name may lead novice astronomers to expect a grapefruit hue to grace the lunar surface, experts warn the moon itself will appear in its usual silvery majesty.
So why the name? It is suggested this particular full moon gets its name not from its own colour, but that of the phlox subulata, a creeping perennial with vibrant pink flowers. This early bloomer flowers in North America at this time of year, and for centuries the concurrent “pink moon” has been celebrated for ushering in Spring and the planting period.
Though there will be very little pink in the night sky, Sydney-siders will have no shortage of reasons to look up this April. On the evening of April 18, Palm Beach Golf Club will host a three course dinner, followed by a guided stargazing experience with the Northern Sydney Astronomical Society, all in celebration of International Dark Sky Week.
The evening will also feature a presentation from Indigenous astronomer Bob Guller as he shares his insights into the cultural histories found in Australia’s night sky. Tickets for this lush festival experience start at $150 and can be purchased via the Dark Sky traveller Official Website.
For those looking for a more accessible way to enjoy the stars this April, its most spectacular astronomical performance is un-ticketed.
On the evenings of April 22 and 23, the Lyrid Meteor Shower will peak, known for its fast meteors, often with trains. In clear skies, Sydneysiders can expect to see about fifteen “shooting stars” per hour, delightful proof of the age-old adage, “the best things in life are free”.
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