A rare optical phenomenon known as the Strawberry Moon has been observed in various cities across Russia. According to Mikhail Leus, a leading specialist at the Phobos center, this full moon appears with a reddish or golden hue due to the refraction of light.

The unique coloration is attributed to the Moon’s low position in the sky during the full moon phase. This low angle causes light to pass through more of the Earth’s atmosphere, scattering away blue light and allowing red and yellow wavelengths to dominate.

Despite the change in perceived color, the Moon’s actual size remains unchanged. The optical effect is solely a result of atmospheric conditions and the Moon’s position.

This phenomenon is reported to occur approximately every 18 years.