SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — People in the U.S. can expect a few celestial treats in the coming weekends, including a full moon and a meteor shower.

The “pink moon” will rise across the evening sky on Saturday. It is the first full moon of spring, but it is also the smallest one of the year. Experts say this phenomenon, referred to as a micromoon, is due to the moon being further away from Earth in its orbit, making it appear smaller in size and less bright.

Despite its name, the moon will not actually be pink. It gets its name from pink wildflowers that typically bloom in April.

The pink moon is expected to reach peak illumination at 5:22 p.m. Saturday, though the moonrise and moonset times vary by location.

According to timeanddate.com, in San Diego, the moon is expected to rise in the east around 7:19 p.m.

For those who are unable to catch a glimpse of the pink moon, the upcoming Lyrid meteor shower may be another opportunity to observe a celestial event.

The Lyrids will be active from April 17 to 26, according to the American Meteor Society. The peak activity is expected between April 21 and 22, which is Earth Day.

AMS says the Lyrids are “a medium strength shower” that may produce fireballs.

They can best be seen from the northern hemisphere, although the waning crescent moon might interfere with their visibility.

No special equipment is needed to view the spectacles. Simply turn to the night sky, away from the city lights.

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