Skywatchers across Pakistan are in for a treat this Sunday as the Flower Moon, May’s full moon, will light up the night sky. Set to appear after sunset on May 12, this celestial event is expected to draw the attention of stargazers and moon lovers alike.
Known as the Flower Moon, this full moon gets its name from the blooming of flowers that typically occurs in May across the Northern Hemisphere. It symbolizes growth, renewal, and the full arrival of spring.
This year’s Flower Moon will be a micromoon, meaning it occurs when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth in its elliptical orbit—known as apogee. As a result, it will appear slightly smaller and dimmer than the supermoons we often see, but no less beautiful.
In Pakistan, the moon will rise in the eastern sky at dusk on May 12 and will remain visible throughout the night, setting in the west at dawn. It will reach its full phase at 9:56 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), making that the best time to look up.
For those who might miss it on Sunday night, the moon will also appear nearly full on the evenings of May 11 and May 13. To get the best view, head to a place with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon, such as a rooftop or an open field away from city lights.
Interestingly, as it rises or sets, the Flower Moon may appear orange or reddish in color. This isn’t due to any change in the moon itself, but rather an effect called Rayleigh scattering—the same process that gives us red sunsets. The Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter blue light waves and lets the longer red and orange ones pass through, coloring the moon’s glow.
Whether you’re a passionate skywatcher or just someone who enjoys a peaceful evening under the stars, don’t miss this chance to catch a glimpse of the Flower Moon. It’s a beautiful natural moment that connects us all to the rhythms of the sky.
