The Sturgeon Moon will officially reach its full phase on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 3:55 a.m. EDT. However, it will appear full to the naked eye for about three days, from August 8 to August 10. The best time to view the full moon is right after sunset when it's just rising over the eastern horizon.
What is the Sturgeon Moon? 🌕
The name "Sturgeon Moon" comes from the fact that Native American tribes in the Great Lakes region of North America found that the giant lake sturgeon were most plentiful and easiest to catch during this time of year. Other names for the August full moon include the Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon, and Wild Rice Moon.
How to See the Sturgeon Moon 👀
For the best viewing experience, find an elevated location with a clear, unobstructed view of the eastern horizon, such as an open field or a hilltop. While the Sturgeon Moon is a great sight to see with the naked eye, using binoculars or a small telescope can enhance your view, allowing you to see some of its craters and lunar seas. It's important to note that the Sturgeon Moon, like other full moons, may appear particularly large when it's near the horizon due to a phenomenon called the Moon illusion. This is an optical illusion that makes the moon seem bigger than it actually is.