Earth’s only natural satellite has a few surprises in store for us in just a few hours. The full moon will be visible from anywhere on the planet, illuminating the nights in every corner of the Earth, although this will mean that another astronomical event will be affected.
What is the Sturgeon Moon?
The astronomical calendar has named the August full moon the Sturgeon Moon, following the tradition of Native American peoples. It is called that way because it markes the time of the year when the sturgeon fish was easily caught.
It is a “supermoon,” a term used to describe the moment when the full moon reaches its closest point to Earth, and it’s seen bigger from our planet perspective.
A supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth and the moon is full. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP)
When to See the Sturgeon Moon?
The supermoon, or Sturgeon Moon, will occur on the early hours of Saturday, August 9, 2025. It will be visible all over the planet, but for a better view, it is suggested to seek out dark locations, away from city lights. You can start sky watching since friday’s night.
When will the Sturgeon Moon reach its maximum illumination?
The Sturgeon Moon will reach its maximum illumination on Saturday, August 9, at 3:55 a.m. EDT in the United States. The full moon will be visible the night before, depending on weather conditions.
The so-called Sturgeon Moon is obscured by clouds at it passes behind the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. (Photo by CHIP SOMODEVILLA / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
Why it’s a supermoon?
The Sturgeon Moon is a supermoon because our satellite will be at its perigee, that is, close to Earth. This makes it appear 7% larger and 15% brighter than a typical full moon.
In addition, it is summer in the Northern Hemisphere, which is why it will have a reddish-orange hue, reminiscent of the sturgeon that gives it its name.
What other astronomical events are expected in August?
The Sturgeon Moon raises the curtain on the cosmic theater that will unfold on Earth. The following day, August 10, a unique event will occur: a planetary alignment. Also, like every August, just a few days later will be the peak of the Perseids, the world’s most famous meteor shower. Due to the proximity of the Supermoon to the Perseids, they won’t be as visible as they usually are at their peak. Nevertheless, Perseids are still worth watching.
