sturgeon moon

Get Ready, California! The Sturgeon Moon is Coming This Weekend!

Hey Golden State skywatchers! Get ready for a celestial double feature this weekend. August's full Sturgeon Moon is set to light up the night sky, and it's bringing some friends along for the ride. According to CNN, you'll have a chance to see this spectacular full moon, along with some shining planets, this weekend. Live Science adds that the Sturgeon Moon will be a special two-night affair, so you'll have plenty of opportunity to catch it.

What's So Special About the Sturgeon Moon?

Okay, so it's a full moon. Big deal, right? Well, this one's got a cool name and a cool history. The "Sturgeon Moon" gets its name from the Native American tribes of the northeastern United States. Apparently, sturgeon, those massive, prehistoric-looking fish, were once super abundant in the Great Lakes and other large bodies of water during this time of year. So, the August full moon became known as the Sturgeon Moon.

But there's more to it than just a fishy origin story. This year, the Sturgeon Moon is extra special because it's coinciding with the peak of the Perseids meteor shower! NASA.gov reminds us that the Perseids are an annual celestial event, and this year, they're sharing the spotlight with the full moon.

When and Where to See It in California

Mark your calendars, California! The Sturgeon Moon will be at its fullest this weekend, August 9th and 10th, 2025. Live Science reports that you can catch it rising soon after sunset on both nights.

Here's how to make the most of it:

• Find a Dark Spot: Get away from those bright city lights! The darker your surroundings, the better you'll be able to see the moon and any meteors. Head to a park, a beach, or even just a less-lit area in your neighborhood.
• Look East: The moon rises in the east, so find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon.
• No Telescope Needed (But Helpful): You can definitely see the Sturgeon Moon with the naked eye. It's a full moon, after all! But if you have binoculars or a small telescope, they'll give you a closer, more detailed view.
• Be Patient: It takes a little while for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Give yourself at least 20 minutes for your vision to adapt.

According to unverified sources, elevated locations like open fields or east-facing coastlines offer the best views.

The Perseids Meteor Shower: A Bonus Show!

As if a giant, beautiful full moon wasn't enough, you might also catch some shooting stars! The Perseids meteor shower is happening right now, and it's expected to peak around August 12th and 13th, just a few days after the full moon.

Now, here's the catch: the full moon's brightness can make it harder to see fainter meteors. But don't let that discourage you! You'll still have a chance to spot some of the brighter ones.

Tips for watching the Perseids during the full moon:

• Look Away from the Moon: Position yourself so that the moon is behind you. This will help reduce the glare and make it easier to see meteors.
• Focus on the Darkest Parts of the Sky: Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, but they're more likely to be visible in the darker areas away from the moon.
• Be Patient (Again!): Meteor watching requires patience. You might have to wait a while between sightings, so relax and enjoy the night sky.

Why This Matters: Connecting to the Cosmos

Beyond the pretty pictures and cool science, events like the Sturgeon Moon and the Perseids meteor shower offer a chance to connect with something bigger than ourselves. It's a reminder that we're part of a vast and amazing universe. Taking the time to look up at the night sky can be a humbling and inspiring experience. It gives us a sense of perspective and reminds us of our place in the cosmos.

A Little Astrological Insight (Unverified!)

For those of you who are into astrology, some sources (unverified) say that this year's Sturgeon Moon falls in Aquarius, which is opposite Leo. This supposedly has something to do with our passions, expressions, and how we connect with others. Whether you believe in astrology or not, it's interesting to consider how celestial events might influence our perspectives and emotions.

The Future of Skywatching in California

California's relatively clear skies (compared to some other parts of the country) make it a great place for stargazing. However, light pollution is an increasing problem. As our cities grow, it becomes harder and harder to find truly dark skies.

That's why it's so important to protect our dark sky areas. Organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association are working to raise awareness about light pollution and promote responsible lighting practices. By reducing light pollution, we can preserve our ability to see the stars and enjoy the wonders of the night sky for generations to come.

So, Get Out There and Look Up!

The Sturgeon Moon and the Perseids meteor shower are a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the night sky. Grab your friends, family, or just yourself, and head out to a dark spot this weekend. You might be surprised at what you see! Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, and dress warmly. Happy skywatching, California!