The Sturgeon Moon made its annual appearance this week, captivating stargazing enthusiasts in the Northern Hemisphere. Named after a large fish species that has existed for 136 million years and was once abundant in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain, the Sturgeon Moon is traditionally seen in August. This year, the full moon reached its peak just before 4 a.m. ET on Saturday, August 9. In the days leading up to this peak, observers enjoyed a fully illuminated moon that heralded its “full” phase.
The moon first began to shine brightly on Friday evening, August 8, around sunset, which occurred shortly after 8 p.m. local time in New York City. Other locations in the U.S. had varying sunset times, with Phoenix seeing sunset at 7:21 p.m., Los Angeles at 7:46 p.m., and Chicago at 7:59 p.m. This celestial event often brings joy to viewers as it provides an outstanding visual spectacle in the night sky.
Celebrated for its historical significance and natural beauty, the Sturgeon Moon is a reminder of our connection to both nature and the cosmos. As it illuminated the night sky, many took to social media to share their photos and experiences. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or simply an admirer of the night sky, the Sturgeon Moon serves as a wonderful opportunity to pause and appreciate the beauty around us. For a glimpse at the moon, many photographers have captured stunning images, ensuring that this celestial phenomenon is shared with a wider audience.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
