Sturgeon Moon & Perseids: Dazzling Sky Show or Moonlight Washout?

Skywatchers are in for a treat this August with two celestial events: the Sturgeon Moon and the Perseid meteor shower. However, a bright moon might dampen the meteor shower's display. Let's dive into what to expect and how to make the most of these astronomical occurrences.

The August Sturgeon Moon: A Golden Glow

The full moon in August is traditionally known as the Sturgeon Moon, named after the large lake fish that were once abundant during this time of year. For Native American tribes, the sturgeon was an important food source. The Sturgeon Moon is also sometimes referred to as the 'Red Moon' due to its reddish hue caused by the summer haze scattering sunlight.

Astrophotographers around the globe have captured stunning images of the Sturgeon Moon, showcasing its majestic glow. During moonrise, the moon often appears with a dramatic yellow-orange tint, a result of Rayleigh Scattering as Earth's atmosphere filters the bluer wavelengths of sunlight.

Perseid Meteor Shower: Shooting Stars Galore?

The Perseid meteor shower is a highly anticipated annual event, known for its bright and fast-moving meteors, often called "shooting stars." The shower originates from the comet Swift-Tuttle, whose dust particles enter Earth's atmosphere at incredible speeds, creating brilliant flashes of light.

The peak of the Perseids is expected around August 12-13. Typically, meteor activity increases after midnight, with the best viewing just before sunrise. Under ideal conditions, viewers can spot dozens, even up to 100 meteors per hour.

The Moonlight Challenge

Unfortunately, this year, the Perseid's peak coincides with a bright Sturgeon Moon. The moonlight will likely wash out fainter meteors, making them harder to see. NASA notes that only the brightest meteors may be visible during the peak.

Tips for Skywatching

Despite the moonlight, don't be discouraged from trying to view the Perseids. Here are a few tips:

• Find a dark location: Get away from city lights as much as possible.
• Allow your eyes to adjust: Give your eyes at least 20-30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
• Look away from the moon: Position yourself so the moon is out of your direct line of sight.
• Be patient: Meteor watching requires patience. Keep looking up, and you might be rewarded with a few bright streaks across the sky.

Even if the Perseids are somewhat hampered this year, the beauty of the Sturgeon Moon and the possibility of catching a few bright meteors make it worth venturing out for a night under the stars.