The fishiest full moon of the year will shine over Metro Vancouver in early August.
The full sturgeon moon is named after the large, prehistoric fish found in lakes across North America and worldwide. August was considered the best time to fish for the ancient-looking creatures, which "have been traced back to around 136 million years ago," according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The August moon was also given other names by different tribes across the continent, including "'Wheat Cut Moon” (San Ildefonso, and San Juan), “Moon When All Things Ripen” (Dakota Sioux), and the ”Blueberry Moon” (Ojibwe).
The moon will be at its fullest in Metro Vancouver at 12:54 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9, according to timeanddate.com.
The Metro Vancouver weather forecast includes warmer-than-average temperatures in August, although the forecast doesn't indicate expected precipitation at this time.
Environment Canada's online cloud prediction tool for astronomical purposes shows when the sky may clear to determine the ideal time to view the lunar spectacle.
The full moon may obscure the view of a breathtaking astronomical display
The full moon occurs during what is considered the year's top meteor shower, the Perseid meteor shower.
The shower kicked off on July 17 and runs until Aug. 23, although it will peak overnight on Aug. 12. It produces numerous shooting stars nightly from its onset, gearing up to dozens hourly leading up to its awe-inspiring climax. Locals can expect up to 50 to 75 shooting stars per hour during the shower's peak, according to the American Meteorological Society.
Since the full moon will rise on Aug. 9, it may obscure viewing for the Aug. 12 event.
The shower is also famous for its "fireballs," which are "larger explosions of light and colour that can persist longer than an average meteor streak," according to NASA. They are also significantly brighter than other meteors.
Stay up-to-date with hyperlocal forecasts across 50 neighbourhoods in the Lower Mainland with V.I.A.'s Weatherhood.
