On August 8 and 9, the Sturgeon Moon rises in full glory for two consecutive nights, giving North American skywatchers a rare double appearance. This August full moon is named for the sturgeon, a massive prehistoric fish once abundant in the Great Lakes and a summer staple for Indigenous peoples and early settlers. In folklore, it symbolizes strength, endurance, and abundance.

Just a few days later, the early morning sky will host a six-planet “parade.” From roughly August 10 to August 23, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will line up in an arc along the ecliptic plane. Venus and Jupiter will shine brightly to the naked eye, while Saturn will glow softly in the distance. Uranus and Neptune will require binoculars or a telescope. On August 18, the crescent moon will join the display, clustering with Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter.

Whether you watch the Sturgeon Moon rise in the warm summer evenings or set your alarm to catch the planets before sunrise, August 2025 promises a sky worth looking up for. Some of the Perseid meteors will still be streaking across the sky during this time, adding extra sparkle to the view. 

Viewers can also sign up for Stellarium Web for free, which offers tips and interactive tools to help you plan the best views of these celestial events from your location.