Partial Lunar Eclipse to Overshadow August Sturgeon Moon
The August "Sturgeon" full moon will coincide with a nearly total lunar eclipse. The event is set to be visible across most of the Americas, Western Europe, and West Africa.
A dramatic celestial event is scheduled for the night of Thursday, August 27, into the early morning of Friday, August 28, 2026, as a nearly total lunar eclipse will overshadow the August full moon, commonly known as the "Sturgeon Moon."
The eclipse will be visible to observers in most of the Americas (excluding Alaska and northwestern Canada), as well as in Western Europe and West Africa. The partial eclipse is slated to begin at 10:34 p.m. ET on Thursday, reaching its peak coverage at 12:13 a.m. ET on Friday. The full moon itself will peak just minutes later, at 12:18 a.m. ET.
The name "Sturgeon Moon" originates from Native American traditions, honoring the lake sturgeon found in the Great Lakes region. These fish were historically easier to catch in shallower waters during late summer. Alternative names for the August full moon include the Green Corn Moon and the Grain Moon.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow upon the lunar surface. This event will see approximately 96.3% of the Moon obscured by Earth's umbra, resulting in a near-total eclipse. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye, though binoculars or telescopes can enhance the experience.