The Sturgeon Moon Shines Brightly Tonight, August 9, 2025

A full moon illuminates night skies worldwide on Saturday, August 9, marking a significant point in the lunar cycle. According to NASA’s daily observations, the moon is currently at 100% illumination and visible as a Full Moon – an event occurring roughly every 29.5 days as the moon orbits Earth. This month’s full moon carries the traditional name of Sturgeon Moon, rooted in historical fishing practices among tribes who harvested abundant sturgeon during August.

The lunar phases are a consequence of changing angles between the sun, Earth, and moon. Because we consistently observe the same face of the moon, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface varies throughout this 29.5-day orbital period. These variations manifest as distinct phases. While binoculars or telescopes can enhance viewing details, even with the naked eye observers can discern prominent lunar features such as Mare Vaporum, Mare Fecunditatis, and Mare Tranquillitatis—dark, expansive plains etched across the moon’s surface.

The cycle of lunar phases progresses through eight defined stages: the New Moon, when the moon is positioned between Earth and sun, rendering it invisible; the Waxing Crescent, characterized by a slim sliver of light on its right side (in the Northern Hemisphere); First Quarter, displaying a half-lit appearance; Full Moon, as observed tonight; Waning Gibbous, showing diminishing illumination on the right side; Last or Third Quarter, presenting a left-lit half-moon; and finally, the Waning Crescent before returning to darkness. The next full moon is slated for September 7.