Skywatchers should mark their calendars for the next full moon that will rise in Metro Vancouver skies in March.
Known as the full "worm moon," the March moon earned its wormy moon as it takes place near the spring equinox and reflects the changing season. It follows the "snow moon," which is a name February's moon is given as the month sees heavier snowfall than other months in most of the United States, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
In contrast, the worm moon refers to the time of year when birds begin to feast on earthworms that are pushing their way through the spring soil.
The Almanac describes how "roots start to push their way up through the soil, and the Earth experiences a re-birth as it awakens from its winter slumber." However, they mention that the moon is also referred to as the Full Sap Moon because it is the time of year when maple syrup begins to flow.
Last year, March's full moon was also known as the Paschal Full Moon, which is a term given to the moon that falls immediately after the spring equinox. This year, however, April's moon—also known as the "pink" moon—will hold the Paschal title. Since Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the Paschal Moon, this year the holiday will be "celebrated this year on Sunday, April 17 (following the full Moon on Saturday, April 16)," according to The Almanac.
The moon will be at its fullest in Metro Vancouver skies on Friday, Mar. 18 at 12:17 a.m., according to timeanddate.com. Of course, the moon will appear almost full in the hours leading up to that point on Thursday night, too.
Want to know what the Metro Vancouver weather forecast will include this spring? Have a look at Environment Canada's sneak peek.
