Major Lunar Standstill

The Moon has a cycle of 18.6 years which affects the height of the Moon’s path in our sky. At the Major Lunar Standstill, the height of the Moon’s path is at its most extreme – the highest and lowest. The rising and setting points of the Moon on our horizon are also extreme.

2025 A Unique Opportunity

By noticing these extremes, we have the unique opportunity to observe the Moon’s monthly cycle as well as her longer 18.6 yearly cycle.

Four Part Series

We have created a four part series to illustrate why the Moon has an 18.6 year cycle.

We have simplified the astronomy and included short animation:

1. The Earth’s Tilt
2. The Ecliptic
3. The Moon’s Tilt
4. The Sun’s Gravitational Pull

What is the Major Lunar Standstill?

What is the Major Lunar Standstill?

What is the Major Lunar Standstill?

What is the Major Lunar Standstill?