Full 'pink moon' is about to cast its splendor

Skygazers are in for a real treat when April’s full "pink moon" casts its ethereal spell. Social media is abuzz once again with talk on what the pink moon represents, as well as where and when it can be seen in full splendour.

Along with the eager posts are somewhat misleading snaps of a full moon in varying shades of pink. "Sweet Full Pink Moon on The 11th of April 2017," as one individual tweeted. The fact is the full moon that is slated to appear on April 11 may not necessarily be pink.

European Space Agency astronaut Tim Peake is among the space experts who have shared stellar snaps of the moon as it waxed or became enhanced in visibility. A year ago, he shared striking photographs of a moonset -- when the moon sinks below the horizon -- from his vantage point aboard the International Space Station.

The pink moon moniker

It came to be called "pink moon" because it symbolises change occurring in the natural environment. The pink moon also derived its name from the first spring flowers to appear – the moss pink and the star-shaped, fragrant wild ground phlox. Wild phlox can be found across a vast expanse in central United States and north into Canada.

The full pink moon of April conveys life and rebirth. Occurring just a few days before Easter Sunday, it is a symbolism of rebirth. Each full moon marks a moment in time. Use of the pink moniker dates back to ancient times, when native American tribes attached poetic and nature-inspired names to every full moon.

People in various parts of the world may catch nice views of the full moon between April 10 and 12, Space reported. The full pink moon may be readily sighted in the US East Coast and in Canada.

The pink moon will begin to reach full peak around 2:08 a.m. It will be quite visible at 6.08 a.m. on April 11.

Head outside to see the moon or simply wait for the photographs people may upload in social media. A live broadcast should also be available.

The dates of appearance of the full moons vary slightly from year to year. In 2016, a mini pink moon made its appearance on April 21. At that time, the moon was furthest point away from Earth, in contrast to the closest full moon that enthralled many people on Nov. 14, 2016.