*April's full moon is a 'micromoon'*

**April’s Full Moon is a ‘Micromoon’: What It Means and Why It Matters**

Every month, stargazers and skywatchers worldwide look forward to the full moon, a celestial event that never fails to captivate. But not all full moons are created equal. While some are dubbed “supermoons,” appearing larger and brighter in the sky, others are called “micromoons.” This April, the full moon falls into the latter category, offering a subtler but still fascinating astronomical experience. Here’s everything you need to know about April’s micromoon — what it is, how it happens, and why it’s worth your attention.

### What exactly are micromoons? A micromoon, sometimes called a “minimoon,” occurs when a full moon happens at or near the point in the moon’s orbit farthest from Earth, known as apogee. The elliptical orbit of the moon around Earth is not perfect. This means that sometimes the moon is closer to us (perigee) and sometimes farther away (apogee). When a full moon aligns with apogee, it appears slightly smaller and dimmer in the sky compared to an average or supermoon.

This year, April’s full moon reaches its peak on the night of April 23, 2025, and it will do so just about a day after the moon hits apogee. That timing makes it the smallest and most distant full moon of the year — the definition of a micro moon.

### By how much is a micromoon smaller? To the casual observer, the difference might not be dramatic, but it is measurable. Compared to a supermoon, a micromoon appears about 14% smaller and 30% dimmer. It’s roughly the size difference between a quarter and a nickel when held at arm’s length. The difference of approximately 30,000 miles (48,000 kilometers) between the moon's apogee and perigee is the cause of this variation. While the visual difference is subtle to the naked eye, photographers and astronomers often notice it and use the opportunity to capture comparison shots that highlight the moon’s changing size over time.

### Why Does It Matter?

Though a micromoon doesn’t create the same buzz as a supermoon, it’s still an intriguing reminder of the dynamics of our solar system. This shows that gravity, orbital mechanics, and other natural forces are constantly changing the motion of celestial bodies. Earth is also slightly affected by micromoons. Tide levels are typically lower when the moon is farther away because its gravitational pull is weaker. These are called neap tides, and although they aren't particularly strong, they are part of the natural cycle of Earth's systems. Additionally, the micro moon offers a good opportunity for astronomers to study lunar surface brightness and for educators to teach about orbital dynamics in an engaging way.

### Cultural and Historical Significance

The full moon in April is traditionally referred to as the "Pink Moon," whose name derives not from the color of the moon but rather from the seasonal bloom of pink wildflowers like phlox. Based on natural seasonal indicators, numerous Native American tribes and early colonists gave each month's full moon poetic names. The Pink Moon's status as a micro moon this year adds even more uniqueness to an important lunar event. It's a good time to think about the beauty of the sky as well as the subtle complexities that make it work. ### When to See It and How to See It To catch April’s micromoon, simply look to the eastern sky around sunset on April 23. The moon will rise just as the sun sets, creating a picturesque lunar display. It will still shine brightly in the night sky, providing a tranquil and humbling view for all who take the time to appreciate it, despite the fact that it may appear to be a little smaller than usual. Whether you're an amateur astronomer, a curious skywatcher, or just someone who enjoys moonlit nights, April’s micromoon is a gentle reminder of the quiet wonders that surround us. Small moons can sometimes inspire the greatest sense of awe.