August has had so many celestial events, including the Perseids meteor shower and a solar eclipse. Stargazing is a great way to spend the night, and the August full moon is on its way.
When is the August full moon? How did it get its name? Here's more on the August full moon.
When is the August full moon in 2026?
The August full moon, known as the sturgeon moon, will reach peak illumination on Friday, Aug. 28, at 12:18 a.m. ET, according to Space.com.
What phase of the lunar cycle is the moon in now?
As of Aug. 17, the moon is currently in its waxing crescent phase at 26% illumination, according to Space.com.
The moon's phases in August are:
- 🌗 Last quarter: Aug. 5
- 🌑 New moon: Aug. 12
- 🌓 First quarter: Aug. 19
- 🌕 Full moon: Aug. 28
What is the August moon called? More about the sturgeon moon
This month’s full moon will be called the sturgeon moon, named by the Native Americans, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac.
Why did the Native Americans call the August full moon the sturgeon moon?
This name comes from the giant lake sturgeon, a prehistoric-looking
fish, once found abundantly in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain.
This important food staple was readily caught in August and September by Native Americans. Though they were plentiful then, sturgeon are rare today in the Great Lakes.
When is the September 2026 full moon? What is it called?
The September full moon, the corn moon, will peak on September 26, 2026, per Space.com
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: When is the August full moon 2026? Why it's called the sturgeon moon
