It originated with Native American tribes who relied on the giant sturgeon fish that were most plentiful in the Great Lakes during this time of year. Therefore, by naming it the Sturgeon Moon, we are not only commemorating the knowledge of our Native American ancestors but also taking stock of our own past and applauding the continuous efforts to save this extinct fish for coming generations.
The moon which will reaches its peak illumination on Saturday, August 9, at 3:55 a.m. EDT, will look full the night before, and the night after, it's officially 100%-lit by the sun. For the best viewing experience, you will want to look up on the evenings of Friday, August 8, and Saturday, August 9, as the moon rises. Though the west coast will get a second chance on Saturday, Aug. 9.
It marks a special planetary alignment as it emerges over the eastern horizon at dusk, it will appear particularly large and golden. This phenomenon is known as the "moon illusion." This beautiful full moon will be the eighth full moon of the year, which will be visible across the U.S. and around the world. Moroever, the history behind this makes it so special for people across the United States. However, the timing of this full moon will clash with the annual Perseids meteor shower, whose peak on August 12-13 will be marred by bright moonlight.
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Why is the History Behind the Sturgeon Moon?
You may wonder why it's called the Sturgeon Moon. Well, the story behind the nickname is tied to the natural world like many other full moon names. The name originated in the North America, where the Sturgeon fish was historically easiest to catch in the Great Lakes during August. Its story is also linked with the Lake Champlain. For the tribes, August was the month when the giant, prehistoric-looking lake sturgeon were most abundant and easiest to catch.
Today, the lake sturgeon is far rarer due to overfishing and habitat loss. So, when we call it the Sturgeon Moon, we're not only honoring a beautiful natural event, but also remembering a species that played a central role in the lives of early North Americans. Therefore, the name “Sturgeon Moon” reflects both the ecological cycle as well as the fish that would move into shallower waters with their cultural significance as a food source.
What are the Other Names?
Other names for the August full moon includes the Lynx Moon, Grain Moon, and Corn Moon. All of these are linked to seasonal changes and traditions. The Sturgeon Moon will signal the start of a lunar encounter with the planets of the Solar System.
As the Moon moves eastward across the sky night after night and comes into contact with Saturn, Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury, the Sturgeon Moon will signal the start of a lunar encounter with the planets of the Solar System. The August full moon, is set to light up the night sky this week. giving us a chance to see it skimming the horizon.
What is the Planetary Alignment?
This isn't just any full moon, as the Sturgeon Moon will mark a fantastic cosmic event, as the moon begins its eastward journey across the sky. Over the coming nights, it will appear to "meet" with some of our solar system's biggest players, including Saturn, Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury.
While the moon itself won't look any different from any other full moon, these nicknames serve as a wonderful reminder of the changing seasons and the deep connection various cultures have had with the phases of the moon throughout history.
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