The full moon as seen over Lagos December 17, 2013. The last full moon of the year is the smallest too as the moon is at its most distant point from the earth's orbit, a phenomenon known as apogee (Photo : REUTERS/Akintunde Akinleye)
The sky in June 2015 will offer some interesting sights, during Full Moon, New Moon and the rare conjunction of Jupiter and Venus. The sixth month of the year will also host the first solstice of this year. Check out what's happening in the sky of June 2015.
Full Moon: According to Seasky.org and Space.com, the Full Moon will take place on June 2, 2015. During this event, the moon will be positioned exactly opposite to the Earth and the Sun. The sky event reaches its peak phase at 16:19 UTC. According to the website, this Full Moon is also known as Full Strawberry Moon, Full Rose Moon and Full Honey Moon.
New Moon: On June 16, the New Moon will emerge. During this event, the moon remains invisible as it is positioned on the same side of the Earth and the sun. The event reaches its peak phase at 14:05 UTC. It is advised that astronomy enthusiasts make the best of this opportunity to observe various celestial objects as the night sky remains dark since there is no moonlight to interfere the sight.
Elongation of Planets: June 6 marks the day when planet Venus reaches its greatest elongation eastward from the sun. On June 24, Mercury reaches greatest elongation westward from the sun.
June Solstice: On June 21, the sun reaches its northmost point in the sky. On this day, the sun will remain in the sky for longer time. The solstice reportedly takes place at 16:38 UTC. It marks the first day of summer in Northern Hemisphere and first day of winter in Southern Hemisphere.
Jupiter and Venus Conjunction: On June 30 and July 1, 2015, the two planets will come closer than ever, according Mirror Daily. During the month, the two planets will move towards each other. And by the end of the month, they will be in conjunction. This happens to be a very rare phenomenon. The website notes that the scientists claim that the planets will appear as one single planet on this day. Look for the spectacular sight in the western side of the sky.
