Overview

• The Moon reached peak illumination at 3:54 a.m. ET on August 9 and will remain at about 99% fullness through August 11, extending late-night viewing opportunities.
• Its low-horizon ascent scattered blue light and intensified red and orange wavelengths, giving it a striking orange hue and a larger-than-usual appearance.
• Photographers worldwide captured its glow from Istanbul’s Galata Tower to Kyiv’s bridges, showcasing the Moon against urban skylines and natural vistas.
• The name “Sturgeon Moon” stems from Native American Great Lakes fishing calendars marking late-summer sturgeon abundance.
• With the lunar phase now waning, skywatchers are setting their sights on the Harvest Moon due on September 7.