The Full Sturgeon Moon: August's Moon Guide

Here are highlights of the August 2012 Moon! The Almanac's monthly Moon guide keeps you informed about full Moon names, Moon phase dates, and Best Days by the Moon.

Full Moon Names

August is the month of the Full Sturgeon Moon.

Some Native American tribes knew that the sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain were most readily caught during this full Moon. Others called it the Green Corn Moon or the Grain Moon.

See all Full Moon names and their meanings.

Moon Phase Dates 2012

All dates and times are ET. See the Moon Phase Calendar for your city/state.

	New Moon: August 17, 11:54 A.M.
	First Quarter: August 24, 9:54 A.M.
	Full Moon: August 1, 11:27 P.M.; August 31, 9:54 A.M.
	Last Quarter: August 9, 2:55 P.M.

For your next full Moon, see our Full Moon Dates chart.

Full Moon Video

Each month, we will explain the traditional names of the full Moon along with some fascinating facts. In this video, learn about the Full Sturgeon Moon. Click below to watch video.

Best Days in August 2012

Below are the Best Days for activities, based on the Moon's sign and phase in August.

For Cutting Hay:

• 6, 7

For Setting Eggs:

• 1, 2, 10, 28, 29

For Fishing:

• 1, 17–31

See Best Days for more activities.

Moon Facts & Folklore

• The Moon hovers above Jupiter on the 11th, above Venus on the 13th, and below Venus on the 14th.
• On the evening of the 21st, the crescent Moon joins Mars and Saturn, 10 degrees above the western horizon, 45 minutes after sunset.
• Clothes washed for the first time in the full Moon will not last long.
• If you glimpse the new Moon over your right shoulder, you will have good luck.
• To have a project prosper, start it during the new Moon.
• Babies born a day after the full Moon enjoy success and endurance.

Share your thoughts about this month's Moon below!