The August Full Moon, traditionally known as the “Sturgeon Moon,” will reach its peak on Saturday, August 9.

The name “Sturgeon Moon” comes from the Native American tribes living around the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain. Toward the end of summer, fishermen would catch large quantities of giant freshwater sturgeon, a fish that was once a vital food source. Although the species was once abundant, it is much rarer today.

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the names of the full moons are drawn from various traditions, including Native American, colonial, and European. In fact, each full moon name referred to the entire lunar month, not just the night of the full moon.

At the same time of year, other tribes had different names for the full moon based on agricultural activities and ripening crops: “Corn Moon,” “Harvest Moon,” and “Rice Moon” all point to the harvest season.

Regardless of which name one prefers, the August full moon remains one of the most stunning spectacles of the summer night sky.