Event details

Sturgeon Moon (Full Moon)

Bright moonlight improves moon viewing but hurts faint targets.

When to look: Window: 2026-08-13 to 2026-08-17 (peak 2026-08-15). Treat as planning context: bright moon can suppress faint-sky targets.

Where visible: US nationwide

How to watch: Start with naked-eye checks unless the event specifically benefits from optics.

What can ruin visibility

Check these before travel

Clouds, moonlight, haze, and light pollution can reduce visibility.

  • Confirm timing
  • Check clouds
  • Check moonlight
  • Choose a darker location

Event timing and verification

Authoritative date plus local-condition handoff

Calendar status: Aug 13-Aug 17 | Peak Aug 15

Calendar policy: Past event windows are removed from current and upcoming lists.

Forecast dataset: 2026-07-24

Use this event page for the sky-window baseline, then use the map or tonight forecast for clouds, moonlight, darkness, and the best local viewing window.

Best regions for this event

Use these as starting points, then validate locally

North Region Arizona forecast zone

State: Arizona

Score: 91 (Great)

Best window: Thursday 10:00 PM-12:00 AM MST (from latest forecast run)

Main factor: Clear skies

View location

North Region Colorado forecast zone

State: Colorado

Score: 91 (Great)

Best window: Friday 12:00 AM-3:00 AM MDT

Main factor: Clear skies

View location

North Region Vermont forecast zone

State: Vermont

Score: 91 (Great)

Best window: Friday 12:00 AM-3:00 AM EDT

Main factor: Clear skies

View location

North Region Alaska forecast zone

State: Alaska

Score: 90 (Great)

Best window: Friday 8:00 PM-11:00 PM AKDT

Main factor: Clear skies

View location

Confirm the event window

Simple field check

Use the event timing first, then recheck clouds, moonlight, and local access before leaving.

Use the event timing, then verify clouds, moonlight, and local darkness before travel.

Recheck local sky conditions before long travel, especially if the event depends on a short viewing window.

Sturgeon Moon (Full Moon): Date, Visibility and Viewing Guide | The Star Window