If the moon looks a little different tonight, you’re not imagining it.
August’s full Sturgeon Moon will put on a spectacular celestial show as a deep lunar eclipse unfolds across North America. During the eclipse, more than 96 percent of the moon will slip into Earth’s shadow, causing it to glow in shades of red, orange, and copper — creating what is commonly known as a “Blood Moon.”
While tonight’s event is technically a partial lunar eclipse, it comes remarkably close to being a total eclipse, making it one of the most impressive skywatching opportunities of the year.
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the moon’s surface. Unlike a solar eclipse, which is visible only from a narrow path, a lunar eclipse can be seen anywhere on Earth’s nighttime side.
Because lunar eclipses can occur only during a full moon, tonight’s eclipse coincides perfectly with August’s full Sturgeon Moon.
Skywatchers can enjoy the event for several hours:
- Penumbral eclipse begins: 9:23 p.m.
- Partial eclipse begins: 10:33 p.m.
- Maximum eclipse: 12:12 a.m. Friday
- Partial eclipse ends: 1:51 a.m.
- Penumbral eclipse ends: 3:01 a.m.
The best viewing will occur around midnight, when the moon reaches its deepest red and copper hues.
Weather permitting, viewers across the Eastern United States will have a front-row seat to this celestial event. Find a location away from bright city lights, look toward the moon around midnight, and enjoy one of the most memorable night-sky displays of 2026.
Adding to the seasonal significance, the Sturgeon Moon is the final full moon before autumn officially begins on September 22. The next full moon, known as the Harvest Moon, will rise on September 26.
So if you’re awake tonight, take a moment to step outside and look up. The moon may be putting on one of the year’s most beautiful performances.
