Lunar standstill.

 A major lunar standstill is an extraordinary astronomical event occurring roughly every 18.6 years, when the Moon’s orbit around Earth reaches its steepest tilt relative to our equator. This tilt swings between about ±18° at its shallowest ("minor") and about ±28.5° at its steepest ("major") due to the combined inclinations of Earth (~23.4°) and the Moon (~5°)  

What Happens During a Major Lunar Standstill

1. Extreme moonrise/moonset positions

During this period, each full moon rises and sets significantly farther north and south than the Sun ever does at solstices, shifting up to ~70° across the horizon month-to-month  .

2. Extreme altitudes

The moon attains higher and lower daily maximum altitudes than usual. Around full Moon, you’ll see it soaring well above the summer Sun or dipping below the winter Sun’s highest point  .

3. Duration

Unlike a solstice’s brief occurrence, the Moon’s directional extremes persist over nearly two years, centered on the standstill peak  .

4. Cultural and tidal impact

Ancient sites like Stonehenge, Callanish, and Chimney Rock align with these extreme moonrises/sets. The peak tidal effects also fluctuate slightly across the cycle  .

When Is the Next Major Lunar Standstill (2024–2026)?

Peak period: January 2025 marks the central peak, but the standstill effect began in late 2024 and continues through mid-2026  .

Key observation dates:

June 11, 2025: Highlighted event by Griffith Observatory for peak moonrise/showing full-moon extremes  .

May 14, 2025: Southernmost full moonrise, also broadcast by Griffith Observatory  .

Notable full moons: Around the September 2024 & March 2025 equinoxes are prime moments to witness dramatic full moon extremes  .

December 2024 Cold Moon: A full moon coinciding with the standstill in mid-December that offers impressive horizon positions  .

 Deep Dive 

1. The Astronomical Mechanics

The Moon’s 18.6-year cycle arises from the precession of its orbital nodes, causing its highest declination relative to Earth's equator to oscillate between ~±18° and ±28.5°  . During a major standstill, the orbital tilt peaks at ~28.6°, making moonrise positions reach extreme limits  .

2. Observational Effects

As the Moon orbits monthly, its declination swings within this maximum range. Over consecutive months, it rises further north before transitioning to its southern extremes. Full moons especially stand out, because they are visible throughout the night aligned with these horizons  .

3. Cultural Resonance

Ancient civilizations etched alignments into stone to mark these celestial extremes. Sites such as Stonehenge, Callanish, and Chimney Rock were likely built with an eye toward lunar standstill moonrises/sets  .

4. Modern-Day Watching

During 2024-2026, astronomers and enthusiasts can observe full moons tracing stunning arcs over northern and southern horizons. Griffith Observatory, British Heritage, and others are hosting events that line up with key dates—June 11 and May 14, 2025 are great ones  .

 How to Experience It This Year

Look out for full moons near equinoxes—especially Sept 2024, March & June 2025, and Dec 2024.

Note moonrise/set directions: full moonrise far north or south of the standard sunrise position.

Attend live streams or viewings by observatories like Griffith (US) or heritage organizations (UK/Ireland).

Use open horizons and minimal light pollution for the best visuals.

Track tides: enhanced diurnal tides are associated with historical effects during major standstill years  .

 Quick Timeline for 2024–2026

Period Event Description

Late 2024 – Mid 2026 Broad window of major lunar standstill effects

Dec 15, 2024 Cold Moon full moon aligning with standstill extremes  

Sept 22, 2024 Full moon near equinox, dramatic rise/set 

Jan 2025 Peak standstill period 

Mar 20, 2025 Equinox full moon with wide swing 

May 14, 2025 Southernmost full moonrise 

June 11, 2025 Highlight standstill moonrise 

In summary: A major lunar standstill is a rare and prolonged celestial spectacle where full moons show off the widest swing across the sky. We’re currently in the midst of it, with best viewing opportunities in late 2024 through mid‑2026, especially around December 2024, March, May, and June 2025. It's a wonderful time to connect with ancient skywatchers—and a visual feast for anyone gazing at moonrise.