Witness the Sturgeon Moon: A Celestial Spectacle Visible This Weekend in Memphis

Stargazers across the region will have an opportunity this weekend to observe a captivating full moon, known as the “Sturgeon Moon,” rising around sunset on both August 8th and 9th. According to Ben Keller, an astrophysics professor at the University of Memphis, the lunar appearance may seem larger and possess a reddish hue – a perceptual effect stemming from its proximity to the horizon.

“Our perception of size is skewed without points of comparison,” explained Keller. “When the moon appears near the horizon, it often seems exceptionally large, but this is an illusion; its actual diameter remains constant.”

To best appreciate the Sturgeon Moon’s ascent, observers are advised to look towards the point opposite the setting sun, as that’s where the moon will emerge. The name itself originates from historical accounts and indigenous lunar calendars. John Carver, a colonial explorer, documented in his 1766 travelogue “Travels through the interior parts of North America,” how some Native American communities linked August to an abundance of sturgeon catches, leading to the designation “Sturgeon Moon.” Sturgeons are ancient fish species currently facing endangerment.

The Sturgeon Moon is slated to rise at 7:54 p.m. on August 8th and at 8:26 p.m. on August 9th. Keller encourages continued observation of the night sky beyond this weekend, emphasizing that full moons offer stunning displays throughout the year. “A full moon is a monthly occurrence and provides just as impressive views in September as it does in August or July,” he stated. “The sky is freely accessible to all.”