Full Moon in May 2023

Written by Apple Updated Jan. 4, 2023

The full moon in May occurs on Friday, May 5, 2023. It is also called the “Flower Moon”. Wishes made at the preceding new moon are supposed to come true at this May’s full moon, which is associated with dependability, responsibility, and growth in astrology.

Full Moon May 2023
Full Moon May 2023

When to See the Full Moon in May 2023

May’s full moon occurs on Friday, May 5, 2023. It is approximately 367,425 km (228,307 miles) from Earth at 00:14 (Eastern Time) in Scorpio.

May’s full moon will arise at 20:39 p.m. (Eastern Time), peak when reaches its highest point in the sky at Scorpio around midnight, and set around sunrise the next morning, being visible for about 7 hours.

Why Is It Called the Flower Moon?

Traditionally, the full moon's name derives from Native American colonial and European cultures. 

Why is May's full moon called the "Flower Moon"? It is because flowers are abundant at this time of year. Other names include "Milk Moon" and "Planting Moon".

Traditionally, the full moon name was given to moons for its whole lunar month, so the Flower Moon will only last until May 18th in 2023, when the June moon (the Strawberry Moon) will begin.

Astrological Meanings of the Full Moon in Scorpio May 2023

May 2023’s full moon in the constellation of Scorpio has the astrological meaning of passion, loyalty, mystery, and discreetness.

Scorpio is the eighth astrological sign in the zodiac, spanning 210 - 240 degrees of the zodiac. Scorpio is ruled by Pluto. It is one of the water signs, along with Cancer and Pisces.

From an astrological point of view, Scorpio contains strong emotional energy. In addition, this full moon occurs with eclipse and it also forms phases with exoplanets such as Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, which remind us to pay more attention to issues such as economy, security, and future development. 

Under the influence of the full moon eclipse, we should pay special attention to our emotions and feelings about ourselves and the people around us. It is easy to cause more negative problems under the intensification of the full moon and eclipse phase.

The Effects of the May's Full Moon on the Astrological Signs

This May’s full moon is happening in Scorpio (210 - 240° celestial longitude). Scorpio is one of the three water signs, and is compatible with the other water signs - Cancer and Pisces, as well as the earth signs - Taurus and Virgo, so the July full moon in Scorpio should favor those signs.

Cultural and Religious Representation

The Moon has influenced human culture for thousands of years, particularly the full moon and new moon phases. Festivals in many countries are related to the full moon phase, including Mid-Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival in China, Easter in the United States, and Navaratri in India.

In the past, it was believed that the moon caused many forms of mental illness and even could cause disasters. Many people believe that the moon is related to life phenomena. Many plausible claims are found in folklore, religion, astrology, literature and art, and modern film and television media.

When Is the Next Full Moon Day

The next full moon will occur on Saturday, June 3, 2023. It is the first of summer. This full moon is called the Strawberry Moon because the full moon occurs in the strawberry harvesting season. 

Back to Moon Calendar.

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