Tonight's Night Sky for the Month of August
August is hot, but the night sky is hotter. From the full Sturgeon Moon to cosmic dance-offs between Venus and Jupiter, the heavens are putting on a show. Whether you’re a stargazer, dreamer, or just avoiding mosquitoes, the universe has a front-row seat waiting for you. Let’s explore what’s lighting up the sky this month!
The Full Surgeon Moon
August’s full Sturgeon Moon reaches its peak on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 3:55 P.M. Learn more about the full Moon of August, how it got its name, and the best days by the Moon in our August Moon Guide.
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August Planet Watch
This month is all about spectacular planet sightings, so be sure to turn your eyes to the sky!
- On August 1, at twilight, look up to see Mars. It will shift lower in the night sky as the month progresses. For a special treat, head out around 8:15 PM on August 26 to see the Red Planet hover next to the crescent Moon.
- August 11-13 (especially the morning of the 12th) will showcase one of the best conjunctions of the year. Low in the eastern sky, you can see Venus and Jupiter huddled together.
- On August 20, Venus and Jupiter are back in the limelight, this time forming a dramatic triangle with the crescent Moon. This can best be seen around 5:00 A.M.
See the planet rise and set times for your location.
Perseid Meteor Shower
August 11/12/13: The great Perseid Meteor Shower will be washed out by a nearly full Moon this year. For best results, check out these shooting stars after midnight and in the predawn hours. Learn all about the Perseids.
Summer Stargazing
The Summer Triangle still shines bright and high in the evening sky! Just look to the East and up! See our free star chart and have fun spotting the three bright stars of the Summer triangle!
Credit: NASA.
Bob Berman
Thank you Bob as always I thoroughly enjoy your column! Looking forward to the Perseids and for my first sighting of Saturn in the evening!
