Look Up! August's Full Moon Will Be Bigger & Brighter

Stargazers, rejoice! Monday evening will treat us to a special celestial event: August's full moon, which is also a supermoon, blue moon, and the Sturgeoon Moon.

"August's full moon was traditionally called the sturgeon moon because the giant sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain were most readily caught during this part of summer."

The Old Farmer's Almanac

What's a Supermoon?

A supermoon is when the moon appears larger and brighter due to its elliptical orbit bringing it closer to Earth. NASA says it can be up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon.

Blue Moon, Sturgeon Moon: What Does It Mean?

This is the third of four full moons this season, making it a "blue moon." It's also known as the "Sturgeon Moon" as named by Native Americans to track the seasons.

When & How to See It

The supermoon will be visible starting Monday, Aug. 19, and the best viewing time in Texas is predicted to be after afternoon, lasting into the evening. You can view it with the naked eye or use binoculars/telescopes. Clear skies!