Residents of Colorado Springs and the surrounding region can look forward to a striking celestial event this week: a partial lunar eclipse that will occur at the same time as the full Sturgeon Moon. The eclipse begins at 10:34 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday and reaches its peak at 12:13 a.m. Friday, just minutes before the moon hits its fullest point at 12:18 a.m.
What to expect
The Earth’s shadow will cover roughly 96 % of the moon’s surface, creating a near‑total eclipse. Because a thin sliver of the moon will still be illuminated by the sun, the lunar disk will not turn the deep orange hue typical of a total eclipse. NASA planetary scientist Noah Petro explains that this small illuminated portion keeps the color lighter than a full‑blooded total eclipse.
How to view safely
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are perfectly safe to watch with the naked eye. For the best experience, find an open space away from bright streetlights— a local park, a backyard, or a quiet field works well. Binoculars or a modest telescope can enhance detail, but they are not required.
Petro advises that any nearby bright lights will diminish the view, so a darkened horizon is ideal. Setting up a comfortable spot—perhaps a hammock or a folding chair—allows you to enjoy the event for its full duration, which lasts a little over two hours.
Why the Sturgeon Moon matters
The full moon in August is traditionally called the Sturgeon Moon, a name rooted in Algonquin‑speaking nations around the Great Lakes. In those cultures, lake sturgeons were abundant and provided a vital food source during this time of year. Other Indigenous groups have their own names: the Assiniboine of the Northern Great Plains refer to it as the Black Cherries Moon, while Eastern Woodlands peoples call it the Green Corn Moon.
Other lunar events in 2026
2026 will feature four more full moons. Notably, the November and December moons will be supermoons, appearing larger and brighter because the moon will be near its closest point to Earth in its orbit. Astronomers encourage enthusiasts to mark their calendars for these future sky‑watching opportunities.
Local interest
Colorado’s clear mountain skies and low light‑pollution areas make the state an excellent place to observe this event. Local astronomy clubs, such as the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society, often organize viewing gatherings in public parks. Attending a community viewing can be a family‑friendly way to teach children about the wonders of God’s creation while enjoying a night outdoors.
Whether you are an experienced stargazer or simply curious about the night sky, this partial lunar eclipse paired with the full Sturgeon Moon offers a memorable experience that underscores the beauty of the heavens and the importance of preserving dark‑sky spaces for future generations.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
