The moon has fascinated humankind for centuries. From guiding ancient calendars to inspiring poetry and rituals, its phases continue to hold deep cultural and scientific meaning. One of the most captivating lunar events is the full moon, a moment when the moon shines brightest in the night sky. You’re not alone. When Is the Next Full Moon?
As of August 2025, the next full moon will occur on Monday, August 11, 2025, at approximately 7:56 PM (UTC). This moon is known as the Sturgeon Moon in the Northern Hemisphere. Named by Native American tribes, particularly the Algonquin, it signifies the time of year when sturgeon, a large fish of the Great Lakes, are most readily caught.
Make sure to check your local time zone, as the appearance of the full moon may slightly vary depending on your location.
Understanding the Lunar Cycle
To better understand when the next full moon is, it’s helpful to explore the lunar cycle.
New Moon
- Waxing Crescent
- First Quarter
- Waxing Gibbous
- Full Moon
- Waning Gibbous
- Last Quarter
- Waning Crescent
This makes it appear as a bright, round disk in the night sky.
Upcoming Full Moon Dates in 2025
If you’re a moon watcher or just curious, here are the full moon dates for the rest of 2025:
- September 9 – Corn Moon
- October 9 – Hunter’s Moon
- November 7 – Beaver Moon
- December 7 – Cold Moon
Each of these full moons carries its name and folklore, mostly derived from Native American traditions and colonial interpretations.
How to Observe the Full Moon
Watching the full moon doesn’t require special equipment; it’s one of the easiest celestial events to enjoy. Here are a few tips:
- Check the weather: Clear skies offer the best view.
- Use a telescope or binoculars: Though visible to the naked eye, a basic telescope reveals craters and surface details.
- Choose a dark spot: Light pollution can dim your view. A rural area or hilltop will provide a clearer sky.
- Go moon gazing at moonrise: The moon looks larger near the horizon due to the “moon illusion.”
Cultural and Spiritual Meanings
The full moon holds symbolic importance in many cultures and spiritual traditions:
- In Hinduism, full moons (Purnima) are associated with fasting, rituals, and festivals like Guru Purnima.
- In Buddhism, the full moon marks sacred events, including the Buddha’s birth and enlightenment.
- In Wicca and Paganism, the full moon is a time for performing rituals, spellwork, and connecting with feminine energy.
- In astrology, each full moon falls in a zodiac sign, influencing emotions, relationships, and energy cycles.
Astrologers say it encourages independence, innovation, and community spirit.
The Supermoon and Blue Moon: Special Full Moons
Not all full moons are equal. Occasionally, we experience:
- Supermoon: When the full moon occurs at its closest point to Earth (perigee), it appears larger and brighter.
- Blue Moon: This happens when there are two full moons in one calendar month or four in a season, a rare and beautiful event.
In 2025, a supermoon is expected in October, and a seasonal blue moon will occur in November.
Apps and Tools to Track the Moon
There are many helpful tools:
- Apps: Try “Moon Phase Calendar,” “Deluxe Moon,” or “Sky Guide.”
- Websites: NASA’s moon phase page or timeanddate.com offer up-to-date lunar calendars.
- Smartwatches: Some models include moon phase tracking widgets.
Final Thoughts
Mark your calendar for August 11, 2025. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, nature lover, or astronomy enthusiast, the full moon is an ideal time to pause, reflect, and connect with the universe.
Make the most of this celestial moment, go outside, look up, and let the moonlight inspire you.
